Open-work refers to a type of decorative design that involves creating patterns with openings or perforations, often used in metalwork, textiles, or other materials. In the context of the Bible, open-work is primarily associated with the intricate craftsmanship found in the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple, as well as in priestly garments and other sacred objects.

Biblical References

1. The Tabernacle and the Temple: Open-work is notably mentioned in the context of the Tabernacle and Solomon's Temple. The artisans, under divine instruction, employed open-work designs to enhance the beauty and sanctity of these holy places. In Exodus 28:39, the instructions for the priestly garments include a reference to weaving techniques that could involve open-work: "You are to weave the tunic with fine linen, make the turban of fine linen, and fashion the sash with embroidery."

2. The Bronze Laver: In 1 Kings 7:29, the description of the bronze laver made by Hiram for Solomon's Temple includes open-work designs: "On the panels between the frames were lions, oxen, and cherubim. On the frames both above and below the lions and oxen were wreaths in relief." The intricate designs and open-work patterns served both aesthetic and symbolic purposes, reflecting the glory and majesty of God.

3. The Lampstand: The menorah, or lampstand, described in Exodus 25:31-40, though not explicitly stated as open-work, involved detailed craftsmanship that could include open patterns. The lampstand was made of pure gold and featured almond blossoms, buds, and flowers, showcasing the skill and artistry of the craftsmen.

Symbolism and Significance

Open-work in biblical artifacts symbolizes the divine order and beauty inherent in God's creation. The use of such intricate designs in sacred objects and spaces underscores the importance of approaching God with reverence and awe. The craftsmanship reflects the heavenly patterns shown to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25:40), indicating that earthly worship should mirror the perfection and holiness of the heavenly realm.

Craftsmanship and Divine Inspiration

The Bible emphasizes that the skills required for creating open-work and other intricate designs were divinely inspired. In Exodus 31:3-5, God fills Bezalel with His Spirit, granting him wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship: "to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze, to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may be a master of every craft." This divine endowment highlights the belief that artistic talent and creativity are gifts from God, to be used for His glory.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient Near East, open-work was a common decorative technique used in various cultures. The Israelites, during their sojourn in Egypt and later interactions with neighboring peoples, would have been familiar with such craftsmanship. The incorporation of open-work in the Tabernacle and Temple reflects both the cultural milieu of the time and the distinctiveness of Israel's worship practices, set apart for the service of Yahweh.

In summary, open-work in the Bible is a testament to the beauty and complexity of God's creation, as well as the skill and dedication of those who served Him through their artistic talents. The use of open-work in sacred contexts serves as a reminder of the divine order and the call to worship God in the splendor of holiness.

The First Theban Empire
... Western Delta. [Illustration: 298.jpg FLAT-BOTTOMED VESSEL OF BRONZE
OPEN-WORK BEARING THE CARTOUCHES OF PHARAOH KHITI I]. Drawn ...
/.../chapter iiithe first theban empire.htm

Notes
... During Lent there was hung up in the churches a curtain, embroidered in open work,
representing the Five Wounds, the instruments of the Passion, etc. ...
/.../emmerich/the dolorous passion of our lord jesus christ/notes.htm

Chapter xl
... This is best taken as coming from the root chur, meaning "white" "here "white baked
goods" "not "open-work." The top basket had a variety of "some of every ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xl.htm

The Immaculate Conception
... had not noticed before. Fragile vases with openwork tops like baskets stood
on the table; they may have been for flowers. On a side ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/ii the immaculate conception.htm

Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 4. <. ...
/.../chapter iisyria at the beginning.htm

Open-work (1 Occurrence)
Open-work. Opens, Open-work. Operates . Multi-Version Concordance
Open-work (1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 7:17 There were ...
/o/open-work.htm - 6k

Tops (37 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 7:17 There were nets of open-work for the crowns on the tops of the pillars,
a net of open-work for one and a net of open-work for the other. (BBE RSV). ...
/t/tops.htm - 18k

Crowns (27 Occurrences)
... (BBE). 1 Kings 7:17 There were nets of open-work for the crowns on the tops of the
pillars, a net of open-work for one and a net of open-work for the other. ...
/c/crowns.htm - 14k

Opens (30 Occurrences)

/o/opens.htm - 14k

Operates (2 Occurrences)

/o/operates.htm - 6k

Cage (3 Occurrences)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary. 1. (n.) A box or enclosure, wholly or partly of openwork,
in wood or metal, used for confining birds or other animals. ...
/c/cage.htm - 10k

Casement (1 Occurrence)
... Easton's Bible Dictionary A barrier of open-work placed before windows (Proverbs
7:6). In Judges 5:28 the Hebrew word is rendered "lattice," in the LXX. ...
/c/casement.htm - 7k

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