Contradiction with Isaiah 2:4
This verse speaks of beating swords into plowshares and nations not learning war, which contradicts the imagery of horses prepared for battle in Revelation 9:17.
Isaiah 2:4: And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. [pruninghooks: or, scythes]
Contradiction with Isaiah 11:6
This verse describes a scene of peace where predators and prey coexist, in contrast to the destructive imagery of Revelation 9:17.
Isaiah 11:6: The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:9
This verse blesses peacemakers, which contrasts the warlike imagery in Revelation 9:17.
Matthew 5:9: Blessed [are] the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
Contradiction with Romans 12:17-18
These verses advocate for living peaceably with all, which contradicts the violent imagery present in Revelation 9:17.
Romans 12:17-18: Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
Contradiction with James 3:18
This verse discusses the fruits of righteousness sown in peace, contrasting the destructive nature of the horsemen in Revelation 9:17.
James 3:18: And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.
Contradiction with Isaiah 65:25
Describes a peaceful kingdom, with no harm or destruction, contradicting the imagery of harm in Revelation 9:17.
Isaiah 65:25: The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, and the lion shall eat straw like the bullock: and dust [shall be] the serpent's meat. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, saith the LORD.
Contradiction with Micah 4:3
Predicts nations not taking up sword against nation, contrary to the battle readiness in Revelation 9:17.
Micah 4:3: And he shall judge among many people, and rebuke strong nations afar off; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up a sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. [pruninghooks: or, scythes]
Paradox #1
Revelation 9:17 describes a supernatural scene involving strange creatures and elements. The contradiction arises because these descriptions do not align with scientific understanding of biology and physics, as such creatures and events have no basis in scientific reality and defy natural laws.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction in Revelation 9:17 could be the depiction of divine judgment and violence. Some people might struggle to understand how a loving and merciful God could be associated with such intense imagery of destruction and suffering. This can seem inconsistent with other parts of religious teachings that emphasize love, forgiveness, and peace.