Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
This verse commands "Thou shalt not kill," contradicting the actions taken in Numbers 31 where the Midianites were killed.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Jesus instructs to "love your enemies," differing from the treatment of the Midianites in Numbers 31.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Romans 12:17
Advises "Recompense to no man evil for evil," which conflicts with the retaliatory nature of the actions in Numbers 31.
Romans 12:17: Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
Contradiction with Proverbs 24:29
Counsels against saying, "I will do so to him as he hath done to me," contradicting the vengeful actions in Numbers 31.
Proverbs 24:29: Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.
Contradiction with Luke 6:27-28
Jesus teaches, "Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you," conflicting with the destruction described in Numbers 31.
Luke 6:27-28: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
Contradiction with Matthew 26:52
Jesus states, "for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword," challenging the military actions in Numbers 31.
Matthew 26:52: Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?
Paradox #1
The contradiction or conflict could be the ethical issue of taking people as spoils of war, which might clash with the values of compassion and respect for human life. This action contrasts with later teachings about love and forgiveness in the Bible.