Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This verse instructs to love your enemies, which contradicts the military action in Numbers 31:5.
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 Exodus 20:13
This verse commands not to kill, contrasting with the enlistment of armed men for combat in Numbers 31:5.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Contradiction with Isaiah 2:4
This verse envisions a time when nations will not learn war anymore, opposing the preparation for battle in Numbers 31:5.
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 Romans 12:19
This verse advises against taking vengeance, which conflicts with the call to arms in Numbers 31:5.
Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Paradox #1
The moral conflict in this verse could arise from the concept of warfare and violence commanded by God, which may seem inconsistent with other teachings of peace and love found in the Bible. This can create a tension between the idea of divine justice and human ethics.