In the Bible, skill and wisdom in craftsmanship are highly valued and often seen as gifts from God, bestowed upon individuals for the purpose of fulfilling His divine plans. This concept is prominently illustrated in the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple, where God specifically endows certain individuals with the necessary skills and wisdom to carry out His instructions.

Bezalel and Oholiab

One of the most notable examples of God-given craftsmanship is found in the account of Bezalel and Oholiab. In Exodus 31:1-6 , the Lord speaks to Moses, saying, "See, I have called by name Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability 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. Moreover, I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, to assist him." This passage highlights that the skills and wisdom required for the construction of the Tabernacle were divinely imparted, emphasizing the sacred nature of their work.

The Temple of Solomon

The construction of Solomon's Temple further underscores the importance of skill and wisdom in craftsmanship. In 1 Kings 7:13-14 , we read about Hiram, a craftsman from Tyre: "Now King Solomon sent to bring Huram from Tyre. He was a widow’s son from the tribe of Naphtali, and his father was a man of Tyre, a craftsman in bronze. Huram was filled with wisdom, understanding, and skill to do all kinds of bronze work. So he came to King Solomon and performed all his work." Hiram's expertise in bronze work was crucial for the Temple's construction, and his skills are portrayed as a vital contribution to the worship of God.

Proverbs and Wisdom Literature

The wisdom literature of the Bible, particularly the Book of Proverbs, often associates skill and wisdom with diligence and the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 22:29 states, "Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men." This verse suggests that skill in one's work is not only a means of personal advancement but also a reflection of one's character and reverence for God.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul speaks to the value of skill and wisdom in the context of spiritual gifts and the building up of the Church. In 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 , Paul writes, "There are different gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different ministries, but the same Lord. There are different ways of working, but the same God works all things in all men. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good." While this passage primarily addresses spiritual gifts, it underscores the principle that all abilities, including craftsmanship, are given by God for the benefit of the community and the glory of God.

Conclusion

Throughout the Bible, skill and wisdom in craftsmanship are depicted as divine gifts, integral to the fulfillment of God's purposes. Whether in the construction of sacred spaces or in the everyday work of believers, these abilities are to be exercised with diligence, reverence, and a heart oriented toward serving God and others.