The term "crafted" in the context of the Bible often refers to the skillful and artistic creation of objects, particularly those used in worship and the construction of sacred spaces. The concept of craftsmanship is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, highlighting the importance of skill, artistry, and divine inspiration in the creation of objects that serve both functional and symbolic purposes.

Biblical Instances of Craftsmanship

1. The Tabernacle and Temple: One of the most significant examples of craftsmanship in the Bible is the construction of the Tabernacle and later the Temple. In Exodus 31:1-5, God appoints Bezalel, filled with the Spirit of God, to oversee the crafting of the Tabernacle: "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." This passage underscores the divine inspiration and skill required for sacred craftsmanship.

2. Solomon's Temple: The construction of Solomon's Temple also involved skilled artisans. In 1 Kings 7:13-14, Hiram of Tyre is noted for his expertise: "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." The detailed descriptions of the Temple's construction in 1 Kings 6-7 highlight the importance of craftsmanship in creating a dwelling place for God.

3. Idolatry and False Craftsmanship: While craftsmanship is often portrayed positively, the Bible also warns against the crafting of idols. In Isaiah 44:12-13, the futility of idol-making is described: "The blacksmith takes a tool and works with it in the coals; he shapes an idol with hammers, he forges it with the might of his arm. He gets hungry and loses his strength; he drinks no water and grows faint. The carpenter measures with a line and makes an outline with a marker; he roughs it out with chisels and marks it with compasses. He shapes it in human form, human form in all its glory, that it may dwell in a shrine." This passage contrasts the true craftsmanship inspired by God with the vain efforts of creating lifeless idols.

Theological Implications

Craftsmanship in the Bible is not merely about technical skill but is often associated with divine inspiration and purpose. The artisans chosen for sacred tasks are depicted as being endowed with wisdom and understanding from God, suggesting that true craftsmanship is a reflection of divine creativity. This perspective elevates the act of crafting from a mere human endeavor to a participation in God's creative work.

Symbolism and Spiritual Lessons

The crafted objects in the Bible, particularly those used in worship, often carry deep symbolic meanings. The Tabernacle and Temple, with their intricate designs and materials, symbolize God's presence among His people and the beauty of holiness. The emphasis on craftsmanship in these contexts serves as a reminder of the care and reverence due to God in worship.

In summary, the concept of "crafted" in the Bible encompasses both the physical act of creating with skill and the spiritual dimensions of participating in God's creative purposes. Whether in the construction of sacred spaces or the caution against idolatry, craftsmanship is portrayed as a significant and meaningful aspect of biblical faith and practice.1908. epereazo -- to revile
... reputation (revile, abusively insult). 1908 ("custom-crafted reviling") is
only used in Lk 6:28 and 1 Pet 3:16. Word Origin from epereia ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1908.htm - 7kCrafted (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Crafted (1 Occurrence). Numbers 31:51 Moses and Eleazar
the priest took the gold of them, even all worked jewels. (See NIV). ...
/c/crafted.htm - 6k

Craftily (7 Occurrences)

/c/craftily.htm - 8k

Craft (14 Occurrences)

/c/craft.htm - 12k

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