Contradiction with Numbers 8:17
Numbers 8:17 states that all the firstborn of the children of Israel are God's, contradicting Numbers 3:13 which emphasizes that the Levites are taken instead of the firstborn for God's service.
Numbers 8:17: For all the firstborn of the children of Israel [are] mine, [both] man and beast: on the day that I smote every firstborn in the land of Egypt I sanctified them for myself.
Contradiction with Exodus 13:2
Exodus 13:2 declares that all the firstborn of Israelites are to be sanctified for God, conflicting with Numbers 3:13's substitution of the Levites in place of the firstborn.
Exodus 13:2: Sanctify unto me all the firstborn, whatsoever openeth the womb among the children of Israel, [both] of man and of beast: it [is] mine.
Contradiction with Hebrews 7:11-12
These verses discuss the change in priesthood, implying a shift away from the Levitical system set in Numbers 3:13.
Hebrews 7:11-12: If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need [was there] that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron?
Contradiction with 1 Peter 2:9
This verse speaks of believers as a royal priesthood, challenging the exclusive role of the Levites as noted in Numbers 3:13.
1 Peter 2:9: But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: [peculiar: or, purchased] [praises: or, virtues]
Contradiction with Galatians 3:28
Numbers 3:13 highlights the Levitical distinction, whereas Galatians 3:28 speaks of unity without distinctions in Christ.
Galatians 3:28: There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Paradox #1
Numbers 3:13 might raise questions about God's claim of ownership of the firstborn in Israel. Some people might see a potential contradiction with other parts of the Bible where God seems to give different instructions about the treatment or significance of the firstborn, or where all people are described as equally belonging to God. It's important to consider the specific cultural and historical context when understanding these differences.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or inconsistency might involve the claim of God’s ownership of the firstborn Israelites. While in Numbers 3:13, it states that God claimed the firstborn as His due to His act during the exodus, other biblical passages suggest variations on why or how certain groups are chosen or special to God, such as the Levites being set apart instead of the firstborn from each family. This can lead to confusion about the reasons for, and manner of, divine selection and dedication across different texts.
Paradox #3
The possible contradiction in Numbers 3:13 is the idea of God claiming the firstborn as His own, which might conflict with the value of individual autonomy and the notion that people should not be owned or possessed by another. This could be seen as inconsistent with the belief in personal freedom and self-determination.