Contradiction with Genesis 4:13-15
God provides protection for Cain, a murderer, rather than having him hunted to his grave.
Genesis 4:13-15: And Cain said unto the LORD, My punishment [is] greater than I can bear. [My...: or, Mine iniquity is greater than that it may be forgiven]
Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
This commandment prohibits killing, yet Proverbs 28:17 implies a killer must flee.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Contradiction with Numbers 35:6
Cities of refuge are designated for those who commit manslaughter, offering them a chance for a fair trial and not necessarily death.
Numbers 35:6: And among the cities which ye shall give unto the Levites [there shall be] six cities for refuge, which ye shall appoint for the manslayer, that he may flee thither: and to them ye shall add forty and two cities. [to them...: Heb. above them ye shall give]
Contradiction with Matthew 5:38-39
Jesus teaches to turn the other cheek and not reciprocate violence, contrasting with the idea of pursuing a murderer.
Matthew 5:38-39: Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:
Contradiction with Luke 6:36-37
Encourages mercy and not judgment, opposing the implication of relentless pursuit to the grave for a murderer.
Luke 6:36-37: Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.
Paradox #1
Proverbs 28:17 suggests that someone guilty of murder is destined for a troubled life and shouldn’t receive help to escape their fate. A potential theological inconsistency arises when considering the biblical themes of forgiveness and redemption, such as those seen in the New Testament. Christianity often emphasizes the possibility of repentance and forgiveness for all sins, including murder, which might seem at odds with the verse's implication that a murderer is beyond help.
Paradox #2
One possible contradiction in that verse is the conflict between the concept of justice and mercy. The verse suggests that someone burdened with guilt for wrongdoing faces a dire consequence, potentially without the opportunity for forgiveness or redemption. This might conflict with other biblical teachings emphasizing God's mercy and forgiveness, creating tension between punishment and the chance for redemption.