Contradiction with Numbers 18:15
This verse contradicts Numbers 8:17 by stating that every firstborn of man and unclean beasts is redeemed, while Numbers 8:17 states all firstborn belong to God without mention of redemption.
Numbers 18:15: Every thing that openeth the matrix in all flesh, which they bring unto the LORD, [whether it be] of men or beasts, shall be thine: nevertheless the firstborn of man shalt thou surely redeem, and the firstling of unclean beasts shalt thou redeem.
Contradiction with Exodus 13:2
It commands the sanctification of all firstborn to God, similar but without exclusive ownership as emphasized in Numbers 8:17.
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 Deuteronomy 15:19
This verse speaks only of setting apart firstborn male livestock, while Numbers 8:17 includes all firstborn.
Deuteronomy 15:19: All the firstling males that come of thy herd and of thy flock thou shalt sanctify unto the LORD thy God: thou shalt do no work with the firstling of thy bullock, nor shear the firstling of thy sheep.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 44:30
It implies firstfruit offerings are for the priests, which can contradict the idea of all firstborn belonging solely to God as stated in Numbers 8:17.
Ezekiel 44:30: And the first of all the firstfruits of all [things], and every oblation of all, of every [sort] of your oblations, shall be the priest's: ye shall also give unto the priest the first of your dough, that he may cause the blessing to rest in thine house. [And the first: or, And the chief]
Paradox #1
Numbers 8:17 mentions the firstborn belonging to God. A potential contradiction or inconsistency could arise when comparing with other passages that discuss firstborns being offered or dedicated differently, like in Exodus or Leviticus. These variations can confuse how exactly the firstborn were meant to be given to God. However, any differences are often seen as different interpretations or developments in practice rather than outright contradictions.