Contradiction with Leviticus 27:30
This verse designates all tithes of the land as belonging to the Lord, contradicting the notion that offerings are also given to the priests.
Leviticus 27:30: And all the tithe of the land, [whether] of the seed of the land, [or] of the fruit of the tree, [is] the LORD'S: [it is] holy unto the LORD.
Contradiction with Numbers 18:21
This verse states that the Levites receive all the tithes from Israel instead of offerings being brought to priests individually.
Numbers 18:21: And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 18:1-2
Indicates that priests and Levites have no inheritance among the Israelites, which seems to contrast with them receiving offerings.
Deuteronomy 18:1-2: The priests the Levites, [and] all the tribe of Levi, shall have no part nor inheritance with Israel: they shall eat the offerings of the LORD made by fire, and his inheritance.
Contradiction with Hebrews 7:5
Mentions that the sons of Levi receive tithes according to the law, focusing on their traditional entitlement instead of broader offerings.
Hebrews 7:5: And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham:
Paradox #1
The moral conflict in Numbers 5:9 could arise from the notion of fairness and equity. The verse outlines guidelines for how offerings or contributions are to be handled, specifically those given to a priest. This could be seen as conflicting with the broader moral principle of sharing resources equitably among all members of a community, especially considering that priests already received various provisions. It may appear as if certain individuals or groups are given preferential treatment over others, potentially leading to feelings of inequality or unfair distribution of community resources.