The term "craftsman" in the Bible refers to individuals skilled in various trades and arts, often associated with the construction and decoration of sacred spaces, as well as the creation of idols and other objects. The role of the craftsman is significant in both the Old and New Testaments, highlighting the importance of skill, artistry, and dedication in service to God and community.

Old Testament References

1. Bezalel and Oholiab: Among the most notable craftsmen in the Bible are Bezalel and Oholiab, who were appointed by God to construct the Tabernacle and its furnishings. In Exodus 31:1-6 , the Lord speaks to Moses, saying, "See, I have called by name Bezalel the 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 underscores the divine inspiration and empowerment given to craftsmen for the purpose of glorifying God through their work.

2. Solomon's Temple: The construction of Solomon's Temple also involved skilled craftsmen. 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 was crucial in creating the intricate bronze work for the Temple, demonstrating the value placed on craftsmanship in the service of God.

3. Idolatry and False Worship: Conversely, craftsmen are also mentioned in the context of idolatry. Isaiah 44:12-13 describes the futility of idol-making: "The craftsman in iron shapes a graven image with his chisel. He hammers it out with the strength of his arm. Yet he grows hungry and loses his strength; he fails to drink water and grows faint. The woodworker stretches out a measuring line; he marks it out with a stylus. He shapes it with chisels and outlines it with a compass. He makes it in the form of a man, like a man in all his glory, that it may dwell in a shrine." This passage highlights the contrast between the true worship of God and the false worship of idols, crafted by human hands.

New Testament References

1. Paul's Tentmaking: In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul is noted for his trade as a tentmaker. Acts 18:3 states, "and because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked, for they were tentmakers by trade." Paul's work as a craftsman provided for his needs and allowed him to minister without being a financial burden to others, illustrating the dignity and value of manual labor.

2. The Role of Craftsmen in Society: The New Testament also acknowledges the role of craftsmen in society. In Acts 19:24-27 , we encounter Demetrius, a silversmith who made silver shrines of Artemis. His livelihood was threatened by the spread of Christianity, leading to a riot in Ephesus. This account reflects the economic and social impact of craftsmen in the ancient world and the challenges faced by early Christians in a society steeped in idolatry.

Theological Implications

The biblical portrayal of craftsmen emphasizes the integration of faith and work. Craftsmen like Bezalel and Oholiab demonstrate that skill and artistry are gifts from God, meant to be used for His glory. The Bible also warns against the misuse of craftsmanship in the creation of idols, reminding believers of the importance of directing their talents toward the worship of the one true God. Through the example of Paul, the New Testament affirms the value of honest labor and the role of work in supporting ministry and community life.