CONTRADICTION · MIRACLES
Jairus’ daughter’s status?
While he spake these things unto them, behold, there came a certain ruler, and worshipped him, saying, My daughter is even now dead: but come and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live.
And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.
This is relevant because it concerns the credibility of miracle stories. Whether the girl was dead or dying is a significant detail. Inconsistency here suggests that the Gospel writers or transmitters did not maintain perfect accuracy. These narrative mismatches support the argument that the text is not preserved inerrantly, especially compared to other scriptures that maintain internal coherence.
THE CHRISTIAN RESPONSE
Some argue that Matthew abbreviated the story, presenting Jairus’ daughter as effectively dead, while Mark provides more detail. They claim the difference is literary style rather than contradictory fact.
THE ISLAMIC POSITION
Such differences show a lack of precise preservation. Why not consistently record whether she was already dead or near death? Muslims point out that the Qur’an avoids these narrative ambiguities, offering clear and consistent storytelling.
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Jairus’ daughter’s status?