Contradiction with Exodus 34:6-7
God is described as merciful and gracious, long-suffering, which seems to contradict the wrath shown in Numbers 32:13.
Exodus 34:6-7: And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,
Contradiction with Jeremiah 29:11
This verse speaks of God’s plans to prosper, not harm His people, which contrasts with the prolonged punishment in Numbers 32:13.
Jeremiah 29:11: For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. [expected...: Heb. end and expectation]
Contradiction with Lamentations 3:22-23
Describes God’s mercies as new every morning, offering a more compassionate view than the punishment described in Numbers 32:13.
Lamentations 3:22-23: [It is of] the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.
Contradiction with Psalm 103:8-10
This verse emphasizes God's mercy and slowness to anger, contrary to the swift judgment and punishment in Numbers 32:13.
Psalm 103:8-10: The LORD [is] merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. [plentious...: Heb. great in mercy]
Contradiction with Ezekiel 33:11
God expresses no pleasure in the death of the wicked but desires repentance, contrasting with the Israelites’ death in the wilderness.
Ezekiel 33:11: Say unto them, [As] I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?
Contradiction with 2 Peter 3:9
Stresses God’s patience and desire for all to reach repentance, contrary to the 40-year punishment in Numbers 32:13.
2 Peter 3:9: The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
Paradox #1
The contradiction in this verse could be the idea of a collective punishment, where the actions of one generation affect the fate of the next. It raises questions about justice and fairness, as it seems unfair to punish people who weren't directly responsible for previous actions.