In biblical times, the role of the goldsmith was significant, as they were skilled artisans responsible for crafting items of gold, which held both economic and symbolic importance. Goldsmiths were involved in creating various objects, from idols to sacred articles used in worship, as well as items for personal adornment.

Craftsmanship and Skill

The Bible acknowledges the skill and artistry of goldsmiths. In the construction of the Tabernacle, Bezalel was filled with the Spirit of God, endowed with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship, including working with gold (Exodus 31:3-4). This highlights the divine inspiration and skill required for such work.

Idolatry and False Worship

Goldsmiths are often mentioned in the context of idolatry, as they crafted idols from gold. Isaiah speaks against the futility of idol-making, describing how a craftsman casts an idol and overlays it with gold (Isaiah 40:19). The prophet Jeremiah also criticizes the making of idols, noting that they are the work of craftsmen and have no breath in them (Jeremiah 10:14).

Sacred Use

Goldsmiths played a crucial role in creating sacred objects for worship. The Ark of the Covenant, the lampstand, and other articles for the Tabernacle were made of gold, crafted by skilled artisans (Exodus 37:1-24). These items were integral to the worship practices of the Israelites and were made according to divine specifications.

Economic and Social Role

Goldsmiths contributed to the economy by crafting items of value. Gold was a symbol of wealth and status, and goldsmiths were essential in producing jewelry and other luxury items. In the book of Acts, Demetrius, a silversmith, is mentioned as being concerned about the economic impact of Paul's preaching on the trade of crafting silver shrines (Acts 19:24-27). This reflects the broader economic role of metalworkers, including goldsmiths, in society.

Symbolism and Imagery

Gold, often worked by goldsmiths, is used symbolically throughout Scripture. It represents purity, value, and divine glory. In the book of Revelation, the New Jerusalem is described as having streets of pure gold, like transparent glass (Revelation 21:21), symbolizing the ultimate purity and beauty of God's eternal kingdom.

Moral and Spiritual Lessons

The work of goldsmiths serves as a metaphor for spiritual refinement. In Malachi, God is likened to a refiner and purifier of silver, who will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver (Malachi 3:3). This imagery underscores the process of spiritual purification and the removal of impurities from the believer's life.

In summary, goldsmiths in the Bible are depicted as skilled artisans whose work had significant religious, economic, and symbolic implications. Their craftsmanship was integral to both the sacred and secular aspects of ancient life, and their work continues to serve as a powerful metaphor for spiritual truths.2 Chronicles 2:7,14
Send me now therefore a man cunning to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, and in iron, and in purple, and crimson, and blue, and that can skill to grave with the cunning men that are with me in Judah and in Jerusalem, whom David my father did provide.
Nave's Topical Index

Nehemiah 3:8
Next to him repaired Uzziel the son of Harhaiah, of the goldsmiths. Next to him also repaired Hananiah the son of one of the apothecaries, and they fortified Jerusalem to the broad wall.
Nave's Topical Index

Paul's Departure and Crown;
... and to mind you of some other scriptures that press ... So concerning the great day of
judgment to the world ... Must also the general assembly and church of the first ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/pauls departure and crown.htm

Church Fabrics and Services.
... The Church of the eighteenth century, and of the Georgian period in general, was
by no means deficient in estimable clergymen who lived and died amid the well ...
/.../the english church in the eighteenth century/chapter x church fabrics and.htm

The Desire of the Righteous Granted;
... to the text, so as other scriptures generally do ... These, I say, are general terms,
and comprehend not ... prediction or prophecy, and that both concerning the wicked ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the desire of the righteous.htm

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... every inhabitant being present in the general assembly and ... Yea, further, where you
find the Scriptures and your ... little for thee as the goldsmith intendeth his ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... their respective resources could not be combined in such general operations as were ...
of an old chronicle, inserted in the Hebrew Scriptures, speaks distinctly ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
... began to deride poor Christian behind his back. And thus much concerning
Pliable. Now as Christian was walking solitarily by himself ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm

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