Contradiction with Deuteronomy 19:15
This verse requires the testimony of two or three witnesses, which contradicts the solitary ordeal of Numbers 5:24.
Deuteronomy 19:15: One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:12
This verse teaches the Golden Rule of treating others as one would like to be treated, which contradicts the punitive trial in Numbers 5:24.
Matthew 7:12: Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
Contradiction with John 8:7
This verse promotes forgiveness and challenges those without sin to cast the first stone, in contrast to the judgment in Numbers 5:24.
John 8:7: So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.
Contradiction with Romans 2:1
This verse warns against judging others since all are guilty of sin, conflicting with the judgment method in Numbers 5:24.
Romans 2:1: Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things.
Paradox #1
The verse in question describes a ritual that involves making a woman drink a concoction to determine her guilt or innocence. The theological conflict could arise from ethical and moral perspectives. It may seem to contradict principles of justice and fairness because it involves a trial by ordeal, which doesn't align with modern views on due process and equality. Additionally, it raises concerns about gender inequality, as the ritual seems to place an undue burden on women.
Paradox #2
Numbers 5:24 may be controversial because it describes a ritual involving a curse and a bitter potion in the context of a suspected infidelity. Some people find it problematic because it seems to endorse a superstitious practice or because it might be seen as unfairly targeting women. This can appear inconsistent with other biblical teachings about justice and fairness.
Paradox #3
The verse describes a ritual involving a mixture that supposedly causes a physical reaction if a woman has been unfaithful. Scientifically, there is no evidence that consuming a specific drink could reliably determine infidelity or cause such a reaction, as it's a matter of faith rather than scientific causality.