Contradiction with Genesis 1:29
This verse states that every herb bearing seed is given for food, suggesting that plants should not harm people, while Revelation 9:3 describes locusts that harm humans.
Genesis 1:29: And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which [is] upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which [is] the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat. [bearing...: Heb. seeding seed] [yielding...: Heb. seeding seed]
Contradiction with Isaiah 11:9
It describes a time when nothing will hurt or destroy, which contrasts with the torment inflicted by locusts in Revelation 9:3.
Isaiah 11:9: They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.
Contradiction with Luke 10:19
This verse states that believers have power over scorpions and nothing by any means shall hurt them, contrasting with the locusts in Revelation 9:3 which do cause harm.
Luke 10:19: Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
Contradiction with Psalm 91:13
It states that believers shall tread upon the lion and adder without harm, suggesting dominion over creatures, while Revelation 9:3 describes creatures that harm people.
Psalm 91:13: Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. [adder: or, asp]
Contradiction with Isaiah 65:25
This verse speaks of peace among all creatures, which contradicts the harmful locusts mentioned in Revelation 9:3.
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.
Paradox #1
Some people might see a contradiction with the idea of a loving and merciful God allowing creatures that cause harm and suffering. It could seem inconsistent with God's nature as depicted in other parts of the Bible, where God is often shown as protective and caring towards humanity.
Paradox #2
The verse describes creatures coming out of smoke from a pit, which are like locusts with unusual features and abilities. Scientifically, such creatures don't align with known biological taxonomy or the behavior of locusts. Insects don't have the described characteristics or emerge from smoke. Therefore, it might conflict with scientific understanding of biology and entomology.
Paradox #3
The moral conflict in Revelation 9:3 could arise from the imagery of locusts being used as instruments of judgment, causing harm and suffering. This may seem inconsistent with the idea of a loving and compassionate God, raising questions about the nature of divine justice and mercy.