Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
This verse, "Thou shalt not kill," contradicts the events leading to the offerings mentioned in Numbers 31:54, where the aftermath of conflict involves taking lives.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This command, "Love your enemies," contradicts the war actions and subsequent spoils described in Numbers 31:54.
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 Isaiah 2:4
"They shall beat their swords into plowshares," contrasts the context of warfare and tribute in Numbers 31:54.
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 Proverbs 15:8
"The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination," questions the offerings from the spoils of war described in Numbers 31:54.
Proverbs 15:8: The sacrifice of the wicked [is] an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright [is] his delight.
Contradiction with Hosea 6:6
"For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice," contrasts with the offerings given from the spoils of war in Numbers 31:54.
Hosea 6:6: For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.
Contradiction with Micah 6:8
The verse calls for justice and mercy, which contradicts the actions leading to Numbers 31:54's offerings.
Micah 6:8: He hath shewed thee, O man, what [is] good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? [walk...: Heb. humble thyself to walk]
Contradiction with James 4:1-2
Discusses the destructive nature of wars and desires, in contrast with the outcomes and offerings of Numbers 31:54.
James 4:1-2: 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]
Paradox #1
The contradiction or inconsistency in this context could arise from the broader context of Chapter 31, which deals with the Israelites' war against the Midianites. One potential conflict is the ethical implications of war, spoils of war, and the treatment of captives, which may appear to contrast with other biblical teachings on love, compassion, and mercy. Additionally, the use of war spoils for religious purposes might raise questions about the relationship between violence and worship.