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      5. RASHI METHOD: CONTRADICTION
      BRIEF EXPLANATION:Rashi resolves contradictory verses using 3 methods.
      • (5a) Resolution using two aspects of the same event
      • (5b) Resolution using two stages of the same process
      • (5c) Resolution using broad-literal interpretation.
      This example applies to Rashis Ex20-22a
      URL Reference: (c) http://www.Rashiyomi.com/w33n9.htm
      Brief Summary: The Torah says "IF you build an altar." IF here means WHEN.

The table below presents presents two contradictory verses. Both verses speak about building an altar of stone. The underlined words highlight the contradiction. One verse set says If you build an altar of stone? while the other verse states When you come to the land you should build an altar of stone? Which is it? Is building an altar of stones optional or obligatory? Rashi simply resolves this using the broad-restrictive meaning method: The word if in this particular verse means when.

Summary Verse / Source Text of verse / Source
Discussion of requirements if a stone altar is built. Ex20-22a And if you will make me an altar of stone, you shall not build it of a cut stone; for if you lift up your tool upon it, you have polluted it.
When the Jews come to Israel they must build an altar of stones and offer sacrifices Dt27-02,06 And it shall be on the day when you shall pass over the Jordan .... You shall build the altar of the Lord your God of whole stones; and you shall offer burnt offerings on it to the Lord your God;
Resolution: Broad-Literal The word if in the above verse means when and indicates an obligatory requirement. Although rare there are three verses where if means when. 


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