Topical Encyclopedia A woodworker in biblical times was a craftsman skilled in the art of shaping and constructing items from wood. This trade was essential in ancient societies, including Israel, where wood was a primary material used for building, tools, and various household items. The role of a woodworker is mentioned indirectly in several passages of the Bible, highlighting the importance of this craft in the daily life and religious practices of the Israelites.Biblical References: 1. Construction and Craftsmanship: Woodworkers were integral to the construction of significant structures, including the Tabernacle and the Temple. In Exodus 31:1-5, God appoints Bezalel, filled with the Spirit of God, to oversee the craftsmanship of the Tabernacle, including work with wood: "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." 2. Temple Construction: The construction of Solomon's Temple also required skilled woodworkers. In 1 Kings 5:6, Solomon requests cedar logs from Hiram, king of Tyre, acknowledging the expertise of Sidonian woodworkers: "So give orders that cedars of Lebanon be cut for me. My servants will work with yours, and I will pay you for your servants according to whatever you say, for you know that there is no one among us who knows how to cut timber like the Sidonians." 3. Symbolism and Prophecy: Woodworking is also used symbolically in the Bible. In Isaiah 44:13, the prophet describes the futility of idol-making, which involves the work of a woodworker: "The woodworker stretches out a measuring line; he outlines it 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." 4. Jesus as a Carpenter: In the New Testament, Jesus is identified as a carpenter, a term that can also be understood as a woodworker. Mark 6:3 refers to Jesus in this context: "Is this not the carpenter, the son of Mary and the brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? Are His sisters not here with us as well?" This reference highlights Jesus' humble beginnings and His connection to the working class of His time. Cultural and Historical Context: Woodworking in ancient Israel involved various tasks, from constructing buildings and furniture to creating tools and religious artifacts. The skills of a woodworker were highly valued, and their work was often seen as a reflection of divine inspiration and craftsmanship. The use of wood from specific trees, such as cedar from Lebanon, was prized for its quality and durability, as seen in the construction of the Temple and other significant structures. The role of a woodworker was not only practical but also carried spiritual significance, as their work contributed to the worship and daily life of the community. The biblical portrayal of woodworkers underscores the dignity of labor and the importance of skilled craftsmanship in fulfilling God's purposes. Concordance Woodworker (1 Occurrence)Mark 6:3 Thesaurus Woodworker (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Woodworker (1 Occurrence). Mark 6:3 Is not this the woodworker, the son of Mary, and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? ... /w/woodworker.htm - 6k Woodworker's (1 Occurrence) Woodworkers (6 Occurrences) Named (428 Occurrences) Woodwork (3 Occurrences) Wooed (1 Occurrence) Fashions (10 Occurrences) Extends (15 Occurrences) Marking (11 Occurrences) Chisels (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |