Numbers 5:23 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to the author of the Book of Numbers, this verse describes a special ritual where a priest writes words on paper and then washes the ink off into a bitter drink. This was part of an old ceremony to find out if someone had done something wrong.

Contradiction with Jeremiah 31:33

This verse emphasizes internal moral guidance rather than ritualistic practices.

Jeremiah 31:33: But this [shall be] the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people.

Contradiction with Hebrews 8:10

It speaks of a new covenant with laws written on hearts, contrasting ritual writings.

Hebrews 8:10: For this [is] the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people: [put: Gr. give] [in: or, upon]

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

Encourages love and blessings, contrary to curses or harmful outcomes.

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 James 3:10

Highlights the inconsistency of blessings and curses coming from the same mouth.

James 3:10: Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:17

Jesus fulfills the law, suggesting a shift focus from the ritual actions described in Numbers 5:23.

Matthew 5:17: Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.

Contradiction with Hebrews 10:16

God's laws in hearts and minds contrast with external written curses.

Hebrews 10:16: This [is] the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;

Paradox #1

The contradiction in Numbers 5:23 could be related to concerns about fairness and treatment of individuals. There might be a conflict regarding the process described, as it involves testing a person's guilt in a way that could be seen as unfair or harmful. Some could view this as inconsistent with principles of justice and compassion.