Contradictions and Paradoxes in Numbers 35:21

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Numbers 35:21 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Numbers 35:21. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Moses, if someone hits another person on purpose because they are angry and that person dies, the one who did the hitting is called a murderer and should be punished by being put to death. This is because they did something very wrong and hurt someone else badly.

Numbers 35:21: Or in enmity smite him with his hand, that he die: he that smote [him] shall surely be put to death; [for] he [is] a murderer: the revenger of blood shall slay the murderer, when he meeteth him.

Contradiction with Exodus 20:13

Numbers 35:21 allows for the possibility of execution (death penalty) for murder, while Exodus 20:13 commands, "Thou shalt not kill," suggesting a prohibition against taking life.

Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

Numbers 35:21 speaks of retribution and enmity, whereas Matthew 5:44 advises, "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you," encouraging forgiveness and love for enemies.

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 12:19

Numbers 35:21 involves taking vengeance for wrongdoing, but Romans 12:19 says, "Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves," promoting leaving vengeance to God.

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.

Contradiction with Proverbs 24:17

Numbers 35:21 involves reacting negatively against an enemy, while Proverbs 24:17 advises, "Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth," instructing not to celebrate their downfall.

Proverbs 24:17: Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:

Contradiction with Matthew 26:52

Numbers 35:21 implies using violence as a form of justice, but Matthew 26:52 states, "For all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword," suggesting that those who live by violence will face similar consequences.

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 in that verse could be seen in the application of justice. It mentions consequences for intentional actions, but this might seem inconsistent with other teachings about forgiveness and redemption. Some people might find it challenging to reconcile strict punishment with the broader messages of compassion and mercy found elsewhere in religious teachings.

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