Contradiction with Deuteronomy 18:10-12
These verses condemn practitioners of divination, whereas Zechariah 10:2 describes how people are misled by such practices, suggesting they hold real power.
Deuteronomy 18:10-12: There shall not be found among you [any one] that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, [or] that useth divination, [or] an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch,
Contradiction with Isaiah 8:19
This verse advises against consulting mediums and spirits, which contrasts with Zechariah 10:2's implication that these sources give false comfort.
Isaiah 8:19: And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead?
Contradiction with Leviticus 19:31
Here, seeking out familiar spirits is prohibited, unlike in Zechariah 10:2 where such practices influence people.
Leviticus 19:31: Regard not them that have familiar spirits, neither seek after wizards, to be defiled by them: I [am] the LORD your God.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 14:14
Denounces false visions and prophecies, while Zechariah 10:2 acknowledges the presence of diviners who mislead but appear credible.
Jeremiah 14:14: Then the LORD said unto me, The prophets prophesy lies in my name: I sent them not, neither have I commanded them, neither spake unto them: they prophesy unto you a false vision and divination, and a thing of nought, and the deceit of their heart.
Contradiction with Micah 5:12
States that God will cut off witchcraft and soothsayers, in opposition to Zechariah 10:2 acknowledging their misleading influence.
Micah 5:12: And I will cut off witchcrafts out of thine hand; and thou shalt have no [more] soothsayers:
Paradox #1
Zechariah 10:2 talks about the futility of relying on idols or false gods for guidance, as they provide false or misleading answers. Some might see a contradiction if comparing this with other parts of the Bible where prophecies and dreams are seen as valid guidance from God. The perceived conflict could be about discerning true divine guidance from false sources. However, this is generally resolved by understanding that the Bible distinguishes between genuine communication from God and false prophecies from idols.
Paradox #2
Zechariah 10:2 talks about false comfort and guidance from idols or diviners, which might seem inconsistent with other passages that mention God using various means, including dreams and prophets, to communicate with people. The potential contradiction is not in the fact that God communicates in different ways, but in the challenge for believers to discern true guidance from God versus false guidance from idols or misguided sources. However, with proper interpretation, this can be seen more as a clarification than a direct conflict.
Paradox #3
Zechariah 10:2 mentions diviners and false dreams, reflecting a warning against following deceptive sources instead of trusting God. A contradiction might arise if comparing this to other ancient cultures or practices that valued oracles and divination as legitimate sources of guidance, possibly showing inconsistency in how different societies viewed such practices.
Paradox #4
The potential contradiction in Zechariah 10:2 might arise from the critique of false idols or prophets providing comfort and guidance. If one considers the value of seeking hope and reassurance, even from false sources, the moral conflict could be seen in whether it is better to have false hope or no hope at all. However, the directive in the verse leans towards seeking truth and genuine guidance rather than relying on falsehoods, which could be seen as a conflict for those who find temporary solace in them.