Revelation 18:13 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to the Apostle John, this verse talks about all the things people in the big city loved and bought, showing how important and busy the city was before it was destroyed. It reminds Christians that valuing things more than people and God is not good.

Contradiction with Matthew 6:19

This verse advises against storing earthly treasures, contradicting the value placed on commodities in Revelation 18:13.

Matthew 6:19: Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:

Contradiction with 1 Timothy 6:10

This verse states that the love of money is the root of all evil, conflicting with the focus on wealth and luxury in Revelation 18:13.

1 Timothy 6:10: For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. [erred: or, been seduced]

Contradiction with Matthew 19:21

Jesus tells a rich man to sell his possessions and give to the poor, which contrasts with the accumulation of goods mentioned in Revelation 18:13.

Matthew 19:21: Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go [and] sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come [and] follow me.

Contradiction with James 5:1-3

This passage warns the rich about their wealth rotting, contradicting the implied prosperity in Revelation 18:13.

James 5:1-3: Go to now, [ye] rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon [you].

Contradiction with Luke 12:15

This verse cautions against greed, contrasting with the theme of acquiring goods in Revelation 18:13.

Luke 12:15: And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.

Paradox #1

Revelation 18:13 mentions items like cinnamon, spices, and even human lives being traded, reflecting a list of goods. The potential conflict here is the inclusion of "human lives" alongside other marketplace goods, which underscores the historical reality of slavery being normalized in certain biblical contexts. This can conflict with modern ethical views on human rights and the immorality of slavery.

Paradox #2

Revelation 18:13 includes a list of goods, including "slaves, and human lives," highlighting a contradiction between the biblical text and modern ethical standards. Today, slavery and the idea of treating humans as commodities are widely condemned, creating a conflict with contemporary values of human rights and dignity.