Contradiction with Exodus 21:12
Exodus 21:12 prescribes the death penalty for anyone who smites a person resulting in death, contradicting Numbers 35:23 which discusses an unintentional killing.
Exodus 21:12: He that smiteth a man, so that he die, shall be surely put to death.
Contradiction with Leviticus 24:17
Leviticus 24:17 calls for anyone who kills a man to be put to death, whereas Numbers 35:23 addresses situations of accidental killing where the killer is not automatically put to death.
Leviticus 24:17: And he that killeth any man shall surely be put to death. [killeth...: Heb. smiteth the life of a man]
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 19:11-12
Deuteronomy 19:11-12 speaks of premeditated killing with no refuge for the murderer, contrasting with Numbers 35:23's context of accidental death and sanctuary cities.
Deuteronomy 19:11-12: 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 Matthew 5:21
Matthew 5:21 reaffirms the commandment against killing, highlighting the severity of taking life which could imply a lack of leniency even in accidental cases as in Numbers 35:23.
Matthew 5:21: Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: [by: or, to]
Paradox #1
The contradiction or conflict could arise from the Bible verse's allowance for accidental harm or death to be considered different from intentional acts. This introduces a potential disparity in moral responsibility and accountability, which might be seen as inconsistent with the idea that all harmful actions should be judged equally, regardless of intent. However, others may argue that intent is an important factor in moral and legal judgment, supporting the view expressed in the verse.