Contradiction with Exodus 21:12-14
These verses provide situations (like premeditated murder) where no refuge is allowed, contrasting with the provision of refuge for manslayers in Numbers 35:12.
Exodus 21:12-14: He that smiteth a man, so that he die, shall be surely put to death.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 19:11-13
This passage excludes murderers who act with malice from asylum, contrasting with the refuge cities’ protection in Numbers 35:12, suggesting murderers could not flee to cities of refuge.
Deuteronomy 19:11-13: But if any man hate his neighbour, and lie in wait for him, and rise up against him, and smite him mortally that he die, and fleeth into one of these cities: [mortally: Heb. in life]
Contradiction with Joshua 20:3
This verse extends the cities of refuge only to those who kill someone unintentionally, which aligns with Numbers 35:12, but highlights the conditionality and narrowness of refuge protection.
Joshua 20:3: That the slayer that killeth [any] person unawares [and] unwittingly may flee thither: and they shall be your refuge from the avenger of blood.
Contradiction with 1 Kings 2:28-34
This passage shows Joab being executed despite seeking refuge at the altar, demonstrating that certain crimes bypass the protection described for manslayers in Numbers 35:12.
1 Kings 2:28-34: Then tidings came to Joab: for Joab had turned after Adonijah, though he turned not after Absalom. And Joab fled unto the tabernacle of the LORD, and caught hold on the horns of the altar.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 19:4-6
This further clarifies that only those who kill without enmity may seek refuge, presenting a contrast to the broader protection implied for all manslayers in Numbers 35:12.
Deuteronomy 19:4-6: And this [is] the case of the slayer, which shall flee thither, that he may live: Whoso killeth his neighbour ignorantly, whom he hated not in time past; [in...: Heb. from yesterday the third day]
Paradox #1
Numbers 35:12 outlines the concept of cities of refuge, where someone who has accidentally killed another person can flee to avoid being killed by an avenger before a fair trial. The potential contradiction or conflict here is with the broader biblical principle of justice and the sacredness of life. Some might argue that providing refuge could delay or obstruct justice for the family of the victim seeking retribution, which may seem inconsistent with the emphasis on justice found in other parts of the Bible. Others might question how this aligns with the commandment "Thou shalt not kill," raising concerns about the treatment of unintentional killings versus premeditated ones.
Paradox #2
Numbers 35:12 talks about setting up cities of refuge for people who accidentally commit manslaughter, allowing them a safe place until they stand trial. A moral conflict here could be seen in the balance between justice and mercy. On one hand, it protects those who didn't intend to kill and prevents revenge killings, showing mercy. On the other hand, it may seem unjust to the victim's family, as the person who caused a death is not immediately punished. This creates a tension between the desire for justice and the need for compassion.