Jump to: Smith's • ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Greek • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the role of a carpenter was a respected and essential trade, involving the construction and repair of wooden structures, tools, and furniture. The term "carpenter" is most notably associated with Jesus Christ, who is referred to as the "carpenter's son" in the New Testament, highlighting His earthly father's profession and His own humble beginnings.Old Testament Context While the specific term "carpenter" is not frequently mentioned in the Old Testament, the skills associated with carpentry were vital in the construction of various structures, including the Tabernacle and the Temple. Skilled craftsmen, including carpenters, were called upon to create intricate designs and sturdy constructions. For example, in the building of Solomon's Temple, artisans and craftsmen were employed to ensure the temple's grandeur and durability (1 Kings 6:7). New Testament References The New Testament provides a more direct reference to carpentry through the life of Jesus. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is referred to as the "carpenter's son," indicating Joseph's profession: "Is this not the carpenter’s son? Is not His mother called Mary, and His brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas?" (Matthew 13:55). This passage underscores the perception of Jesus by His contemporaries as someone of humble origins, working in a trade that required skill and diligence. Similarly, in the Gospel of Mark, Jesus Himself is called a carpenter: "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?" (Mark 6:3). This reference suggests that Jesus likely worked alongside Joseph, learning the trade and engaging in the daily life of a carpenter before beginning His public ministry. Symbolic Significance The role of a carpenter carries symbolic significance in the life and ministry of Jesus. Carpentry, as a trade, involves creation, repair, and building—concepts that resonate with Jesus' mission on earth. As a carpenter, Jesus would have been familiar with the process of transforming raw materials into something purposeful and beautiful, mirroring His transformative work in the lives of individuals and communities. Furthermore, the humble profession of carpentry emphasizes the humility and servanthood of Christ. Despite His divine nature, Jesus chose to live a life of simplicity and labor, identifying with the common people and demonstrating that greatness in the Kingdom of God is not measured by worldly status but by service and obedience to God's will. Cultural and Historical Context In the cultural and historical context of first-century Palestine, carpenters were essential to the community, providing necessary goods and services. They worked with various materials, including wood, stone, and metal, to create tools, furniture, and buildings. The skills of a carpenter were passed down through generations, often within families, as seen in the case of Joseph and Jesus. Carpenters were also involved in the construction of agricultural tools, which were crucial for the agrarian society of the time. Their work supported the daily life and economic stability of the community, making their role indispensable. In summary, the figure of the carpenter in the Bible, particularly in the New Testament, serves as a powerful reminder of Jesus' humanity, His connection to everyday life, and His mission to build and restore. The profession of carpentry, with its emphasis on creation and transformation, provides a fitting metaphor for the redemptive work of Christ. Smith's Bible Dictionary CarpenterEaston's Bible Dictionary An artificer in stone, iron, and copper, as well as in wood (2 Samuel 5:11; 1 Chronicles 14:1; Mark 6:3). The tools used by carpenters are mentioned in 1 Samuel 13:19, 20; Judges 4:21; Isaiah 10:15; 44:13. It was said of our Lord, "Is not this the carpenter's son?" (Matthew 13:55); also, "Is not this the carpenter?" (Mark 6:3). Every Jew, even the rabbis, learned some handicraft: Paul was a tentmaker. "In the cities the carpenters would be Greeks, and skilled workmen; the carpenter of a provincial village could only have held a very humble position, and secured a very moderate competence." Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) An artificer who works in timber; a framer and builder of houses, ships, etc.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CARPENTERkar'-pen-ter (charash; tekton): This word, which is a general word for graver or craftsman, is translated "carpenter" in 2 Kings 22:6 2 Chronicles 24:12; Ezra 3:7 Isaiah 41:7. The same word is rendered "craftsman" in the American Standard Revised Version of Jeremiah 24:1 and Jeremiah 29:2 and "smith" in the American Standard Revised Version of Zechariah 1:20. In 2 Samuel 5:11 2 Kings 12:11; 1 Chronicles 14:1; and Isaiah 44:13, charash occurs with `ets (wood), and is more exactly translated "carpenter" or "worker in wood." Tekton, the corresponding Greek word for artificer, is translated "carpenter" in Matthew 13:55 and Mark 6:3. ARABIC HISTORY OF JOSEPH THE CARPENTER See APOCRYPHAL GOSPELS. JOSEPH, THE CARPENTER, GOSPEL OF See APOCRYPHAL GOSPELS. Greek 5045. tekton -- a craftsman, spec. a carpenter ... a carpenter. Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: tekton Phonetic Spelling: (tek'-tone) Short Definition: a carpenter Definition: a carpenter, an ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5045.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 6086. ets -- tree, trees, wood... wooden (6). carpenter, gallows, helve, pine, plank, staff, stalk, stick,. From atsah; a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural ... /hebrew/6086.htm - 6k 2796. charash -- engraver, artificer 8279. sered -- a stylus Library The Young Carpenter. "Is not this the Carpenter's Son?" Is not He the Carpenter? Now Joseph was a Carpenter, and Used to Make Nothing Else of Wood ... The History of Joseph the Carpenter The History of Joseph the Carpenter. He Perished under Divine Wrath. visions of the Emperor's Death ... The History of Joseph the Carpenter The Angel Adjutant of "Twice Born Men" Special Efforts Thesaurus Carpenter (4 Occurrences)... It was said of our Lord, "Is not this the carpenter's son?" (Matthew 13:55); also, "Is not this the carpenter?" (Mark 6:3). Every Jew, even the rabbis, learned ... /c/carpenter.htm - 10k Carpenter's (1 Occurrence) Carpenters (11 Occurrences) Joses (7 Occurrences) Isn't (154 Occurrences) Aren't (102 Occurrences) Axe (19 Occurrences) Sitting (201 Occurrences) Crafts (2 Occurrences) Resources Was Jesus a carpenter? | GotQuestions.orgWho was the real historical Jesus? | GotQuestions.org Is Jesus a copy of Dionysus? | GotQuestions.org Carpenter: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Carpenter (4 Occurrences)Matthew 13:55 Mark 6:3 Isaiah 41:7 Isaiah 44:13 Subtopics Carpentry: Building the Ark of Noah Carpentry: Tabernacle, and Furniture of Related Terms |
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