Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This verse contradicts Psalms 54:5 by instructing to love enemies and pray for those who persecute you, whereas Psalms 54:5 speaks about requiting evil to enemies.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
This verse advises against taking revenge and leaving punishment to God, differing from Psalms 54:5, which reflects a desire for retribution against enemies.
Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Contradiction with Proverbs 24:17
This verse advises not to rejoice when your enemy falls, which contradicts the implication of seeking downfall for enemies in Psalms 54:5.
Proverbs 24:17: Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:
Contradiction with Luke 6:27
This verse encourages loving your enemies and doing good to those who hate you, opposing the view in Psalms 54:5 of recompensing evil to adversaries.
Luke 6:27: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
Contradiction with 1 Peter 3:9
It states not to repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, which is contrary to the notion of retaliation in Psalms 54:5.
1 Peter 3:9: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.
Paradox #1
Psalms 54:5 talks about God punishing enemies, but this could seem to contradict the teachings of forgiveness and love for enemies found in the New Testament, like in Jesus' teachings. This creates a tension between justice and mercy.
Paradox #2
Psalms 54:5 talks about God repaying evil to enemies and destroying them. A potential contradiction could be with the New Testament teaching of loving your enemies and turning the other cheek, as mentioned in verses like Matthew 5:44. The Old Testament sometimes emphasizes justice and retribution, while the New Testament highlights forgiveness and love. This difference might seem inconsistent to some readers.
Paradox #3
Psalm 54:5 talks about retribution against enemies. The moral conflict might arise from the idea of seeking vengeance, which can seem inconsistent with the broader biblical teachings on forgiveness and loving one's enemies. This could be seen as contradictory to the messages in other parts of the Bible where forgiveness is emphasized.