Contradiction with Proverbs 3:5-6
This verse emphasizes trusting in the Lord with all your heart and leaning not on your own understanding, which contrasts with Numbers 5:22 that involves a ritual based on human judgment and practice.
Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This verse teaches to love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, which contradicts the punitive nature of the curse described in Numbers 5:22.
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 John 8:3-11
The account of Jesus and the adulterous woman, where Jesus emphasizes forgiveness over punishment, stands in contradiction to the harsh outcome outlined in Numbers 5:22.
John 8:3-11: And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst,
Contradiction with Romans 12:14
This verse encourages blessing those who persecute you, not cursing them, which is in conflict with the curse element of Numbers 5:22.
Romans 12:14: Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
Paradox #1
Theologically, some people may find an inconsistency or conflict in this verse due to its depiction of a ritual involving a harmful ordeal. This can seem at odds with the generally compassionate nature of God emphasized in other parts of the Bible. Some see this as conflicting with the idea of justice and mercy.
Paradox #2
The verse involves a ritual that allegedly causes physical harm as a result of infidelity, implying a supernatural effect on health. This conflicts with scientific understanding of medicine and biology, which does not support the claim that consuming a concoction can reveal moral guilt by causing specific physical symptoms.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or conflict in this verse could arise from its treatment of women, which might be seen as unfair or degrading by modern standards. The process described could be viewed as a violation of a woman's rights and personal dignity, reflecting a time when women's autonomy was not respected. This might contrast with contemporary views on justice, fairness, and gender equality.