Contradictions and Paradoxes in Numbers 31:23

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Numbers 31:23 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Numbers 31:23. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Moses, God told the people to clean things that could be put in fire by putting them in fire to make them pure. For things that couldn't go in the fire, they had to wash them with special water to make sure they were clean.

Numbers 31:23: Every thing that may abide the fire, ye shall make [it] go through the fire, and it shall be clean: nevertheless it shall be purified with the water of separation: and all that abideth not the fire ye shall make go through the water.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:39

While Numbers 31:23 discusses purification by fire and water after war, Matthew 5:39 teaches non-resistance to evil, promoting peace over conflict.

Matthew 5:39: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

Contradiction with Isaiah 2:4

Numbers 31:23 involves preparation for war, whereas Isaiah 2:4 envisions a future where nations beat swords into plowshares, ceasing war altogether.

Isaiah 2:4: And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. [pruninghooks: or, scythes]

Contradiction with James 4:1

Numbers 31:23 suggests actions during wartime; James 4:1 questions the motivations behind conflicts, calling out the desires that lead to wars.

James 4:1: From whence [come] wars and fightings among you? [come they] not hence, [even] of your lusts that war in your members? [fightings: or, brawlings] [lusts: or, pleasures]

Contradiction with Micah 4:3

While Numbers 31:23 relates to war spoil purification, Micah 4:3 expresses the hope for a time when war will be abolished, promoting peace.

Micah 4:3: And he shall judge among many people, and rebuke strong nations afar off; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up a sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. [pruninghooks: or, scythes]

Contradiction with Romans 12:17

Numbers 31:23 involves post-war rituals; Romans 12:17 encourages not repaying evil for evil, instead living peaceably.

Romans 12:17: Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

Paradox #1

Numbers 31:23 deals with purification laws, specifically about purifying objects after coming into contact with gentiles or in warfare. Some people might see a contradiction when comparing these specific purification rituals with other biblical verses that mention purification, such as those found in Leviticus. Different books or chapters might have slightly different instructions for similar purification processes, leading to perceived inconsistencies in the biblical text regarding how and when purification should occur.

Paradox #2

The contradiction or conflict could arise from issues related to the ethical treatment of captured goods, purification laws, and the broader context of war and violence in the narrative. These aspects might be challenging to reconcile with modern views on ethics and morality, particularly regarding fair treatment and peace.

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