Topical Bible: Art: Primitive of the Goldsmith

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The art of the goldsmith in biblical times is a testament to the skill and creativity endowed by God to humanity, reflecting both divine craftsmanship and human ingenuity. The Bible provides numerous references to the work of goldsmiths, highlighting their role in the creation of sacred objects, ornaments, and idols.

Biblical References and Context

The craft of the goldsmith is first notably mentioned in the construction of the Tabernacle, where God commands Moses to use skilled artisans for the creation of sacred items. In Exodus 31:3-5 , God says, "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 such artistry.

Goldsmiths were responsible for creating the Ark of the Covenant, the lampstand, and other sacred furnishings, as described in Exodus 37. The intricate work involved in these creations required not only technical skill but also a deep reverence for the sacred nature of their work.

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance

Gold, as a material, holds significant symbolic meaning in the Bible. It represents purity, divinity, and kingship. The use of gold in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple built by Solomon (1 Kings 6:20-22) signifies the holiness and majesty of God's dwelling place. The goldsmith's art, therefore, is not merely a craft but a spiritual service, contributing to the worship and glorification of God.

In Isaiah 40:19 , the prophet critiques the making of idols, stating, "To an idol that a craftsman casts and a metalworker overlays with gold and fits with silver chains?" This highlights the dual nature of the goldsmith's work: while it can be used to honor God, it can also be misused in the creation of idols, leading people away from true worship.

Cultural and Historical Insights

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, goldsmiths were highly regarded for their expertise. Their work was essential not only in religious contexts but also in the creation of jewelry and decorative items for the wealthy and powerful. The skill of the goldsmith was passed down through generations, often within families, ensuring the preservation and advancement of techniques.

The tools and methods used by goldsmiths in biblical times were rudimentary compared to modern standards, yet their creations were remarkably sophisticated. Techniques such as casting, engraving, and filigree were employed to produce intricate designs that have stood the test of time.

Moral and Ethical Considerations

The Bible presents a balanced view of the goldsmith's art, recognizing both its potential for beauty and its capacity for idolatry. The moral responsibility of the goldsmith is to use their God-given talents for righteous purposes, aligning their work with the values and commandments of Scripture.

In summary, the primitive art of the goldsmith in biblical times is a profound expression of human creativity inspired by divine wisdom. It serves as a reminder of the importance of using one's talents to honor God and contribute to the spiritual life of the community.

Nave's Topical Index

Isaiah 40:19
The workman melts a graven image, and the goldsmith spreads it over with gold, and casts silver chains.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Meditations for the Sick.
... refines and tries their faith, as the goldsmith doth his ... this cause, the Christians
in the primitive church [108 ... not the more secure, that thou art restored to ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/bayly/the practice of piety/meditations for the sick.htm

The Lord's Supper
... In primitive times, after sermon was done, and the Lord's ... As the goldsmith brings
his gold to the touchstone, so we ... art thou a fit guest for the Lord's table ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/the ten commandments/4 5 the lords supper.htm

Appendix.
... Goldsmith, O., 'Works,' 4 vols. (Prior), 1837. ... 'Primitive Christianity revived,'
1711. ... 'Memoirs Illustrative of the Art of Glass Painting,' 1865. ...
/.../abbey/the english church in the eighteenth century/appendix.htm

A Book for Boys and Girls Or, Temporal Things Spritualized.
... But I retain my primitive condition, I've all but ... heed of pride, remember what thou
art By nature ... if ever exert but upon the wing.'"Goldsmith's Natural History ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a book for boys and.htm

The Close of the Theban Empire
... Pharaohs, resolved itself into its primitive elements, a ... prosperity encouraged a
passion for goldsmith's work, and ... an example of pure industrial art, but of an ...
/.../chapter iiithe close of the.htm

Church Fabrics and Services.
... place in Oxford, and to the intricacies and technicalities of the art.[957] The ... Lent
was celebrated with much of the solemnity and austerity of primitive times ...
/.../the english church in the eighteenth century/chapter x church fabrics and.htm

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... Researches with regard to the primitive inhabitants of Syria and their
remains have not as yet been prosecuted to any extent. ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... to the exercise of mutual forbearance, 'Who art thou that ... as little for thee as the
goldsmith intendeth his ... city, the very name that our primitive church went ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm