Contradiction with 1 Samuel 15:22
This verse emphasizes that obedience to God's command is more important than sacrifice, whereas Psalms 51:17 highlights the value of a contrite spirit over sacrifices.
1 Samuel 15:22: And Samuel said, Hath the LORD [as great] delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey [is] better than sacrifice, [and] to hearken than the fat of rams.
Contradiction with Hosea 6:6
In this verse, God desires mercy rather than sacrifice, creating a contrast with Psalms 51:17's focus on a contrite heart as a form of sacrifice.
Hosea 6:6: For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.
Contradiction with Hebrews 10:8
Here, God expresses that He has not desired sacrifices and offerings, which contradicts the implication in Psalms 51:17 that a broken spirit is a sacrifice pleasing to God.
Hebrews 10:8: Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and [offering] for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure [therein]; which are offered by the law;
Contradiction with Proverbs 21:3
This verse states that doing righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice, contrasting with the focus on a broken heart in Psalms 51:17.
Proverbs 21:3: To do justice and judgment [is] more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction or conflict in Psalms 51:17 could arise from the idea that while the verse emphasizes a contrite and humble heart as desirable to God, other parts of religious practice might emphasize ritual sacrifices or outward expressions of faith. This could create tension between internal sincerity and external religious observance.