How can an omnipotent God allow contradictions in His holy book?

Definition of “Contradiction”

A “contradiction” is typically understood to be a direct conflict between two statements that cannot both be true in the same sense and at the same time. When some readers encounter differing details or expressions within Scripture, they may assume these constitute grave inconsistencies. However, careful reading, attention to context, and understanding of biblical languages often reveal that these are not genuine contradictions.

Scriptural Assertions of Reliability

Scripture maintains that it is both inspired and trustworthy. As one passage states, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). Further, it declares, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). These verses underscore the Bible’s emphasis on truth rather than incoherence.

Harmonization and Internal Consistency

Over centuries, numerous biblical scholars have studied what may appear as conflicting passages. A systematic comparison of parallel accounts—such as the four Gospels—often reveals different perspectives on the same events rather than irreconcilable mistakes. For example, parallels in the Gospels sometimes mention different numbers of angels at the empty tomb. These variations can fit together logically: one Gospel might emphasize the speaker, while another acknowledges multiple angels present (compare Matthew 28:1–7 and John 20:11–12). Rather than invalidating the event, these complementary viewpoints offer a fuller picture.

Factors Leading to “Apparent Contradictions”

1. Diverse Human Authors

Scripture was recorded by individuals from different eras, cultures, and professions. Their styles, emphases, and writing conventions vary, yet their central message remains consistent. This variety can give the appearance of conflicting statements when it is really a mosaic of distinct but intersecting testimonies.

2. Contextual Differences

Events can be portrayed differently depending on context. Words or idioms in ancient Hebrew or Koine Greek do not always map neatly onto modern language. When a passage is read outside its historical and cultural context, confusion can arise.

3. Non-Linear Narrative Techniques

The biblical writers sometimes arranged events thematically rather than chronologically. Ancient Middle Eastern literature often prioritized themes or theological points over strict time-sequence, which can lead modern readers to infer a contradiction where none exists.

Textual Preservation and Scribal Transmission

Archaeological discoveries such as the Dead Sea Scrolls (dating as far back as the third century BC) have provided evidence of the remarkable preservation of Old Testament texts. These scrolls, when compared to more recent manuscripts, demonstrate consistent content overall. Furthermore, thousands of New Testament manuscripts, fragments, and quotation references from the early church fathers exhibit a remarkably stable textual tradition, despite minor scribal variations.

The careful transmission of these texts indicates that—far from being lost in time—Scripture has been maintained with exceptional fidelity. Minor copyist errors do not equate to contradictions in doctrine or key events. Scholars have extensively shown that no major teaching is impacted by the small percentage of textual variants.

Understanding Literary Genres

Scripture contains various genres—historical narrative, poetry, prophecy, epistle, and more. Each genre has its own conventions. Poetic imagery often uses metaphorical language, while historical accounts adhere more closely to factual description. For instance, the poetic language in Psalms might describe a sunrise “coming forth from its chamber” (Psalm 19:5). This is not an astronomical treatise but a poetic illustration of God’s creation. Failing to distinguish between figurative and literal language can mistakenly create the perception of contradiction.

Archaeological and Historical Corroboration

Outside sources corroborate many biblical events, reinforcing the stability of Scripture’s claims:

• Archaeological finds such as the Ebla tablets and the Tel Dan inscription support the existence of historical people and places mentioned in Scripture.

• The pilot inscription from Caesarea reflects how the biblical figure Pontius Pilate was historically grounded in first-century Judea.

• Ancient city locations described in the Old and New Testaments have continually been verified through excavations, illustrating the reliability of geographic details.

Such evidence does not eliminate every question, but it affirms that biblical statements align well with historical reality.

Why Would an Omnipotent God Permit Such Challenges?

1. Respecting Human Agency

God often works through human involvement, allowing biblical authors to maintain their personal language, style, and perspective. Rather than dictating a strict uniformity, God’s providence ensures that the substance of His revelation remains intact and dependable, while still reflecting human linguistic diversity.

2. Spurring Deeper Pursuit of Truth

Apparent difficulties can prompt readers to dive more deeply into the text. This deeper exploration often fosters greater appreciation for Scripture’s integrity and context. As readers study these nuances, many “contradictions” are resolved through careful examination.

3. Demonstrating Cohesive Unity

When Scripture withstands centuries of scrutiny, it illustrates the steadfastness of the biblical message. The outcome of thorough research frequently shows that these passages are not contradictory but complementary.

Philosophical and Faith Considerations

Scripture indicates that God’s ways transcend human comprehension: “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways” (Isaiah 55:8). An omnipotent God, capable of sustaining the universe, can certainly preserve the core truths of His word. The presence of challenging passages may serve to highlight our dependence on Him and emphasize the need for humility and careful study.

Moreover, this perspective aligns with the understanding that truth is ultimately found in the redemptive work of Christ, affirmed by the historical reality of the resurrection—an event that countless scholars and historical analyses uphold as a turning point in human history. The focus on that central truth surpasses the tension of smaller details.

Conclusion

The question of how an omnipotent God can allow what appear to be contradictions in His word touches on literary, historical, cultural, and theological issues. A thorough examination shows that these perceived inconsistencies typically stem from misunderstandings of context, culture, and language.

The Bible’s overarching message and historical roots stand firm, supported by careful manuscript preservation, archaeological corroboration, and consistent internal testimony. God’s character and power are displayed not only through the dynamic array of authors and genres but also through the singular redemptive narrative that unites all of Scripture. As the Bible itself declares, “The sum of Your word is truth, and all Your righteous judgments endure forever” (Psalm 119:160).