Topical Bible: Master Workman: Hiram

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Hiram, often referred to as the master workman or craftsman, is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the construction of Solomon's Temple. His account is primarily found in the Old Testament books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles.

Background and Identity

Hiram is identified as a skilled artisan from Tyre, a city renowned for its craftsmanship and trade. He is the son of a widow from the tribe of Naphtali, and his father was a man of Tyre, skilled in bronze work. This mixed heritage endowed Hiram with a unique blend of Israelite and Phoenician influences, which contributed to his exceptional abilities in craftsmanship.

Role in Solomon's Temple

King Solomon, in his quest to build a temple for the Lord, sought the expertise of Hiram. The king of Tyre, also named Hiram, sent this master craftsman to assist Solomon. The biblical account in 1 Kings 7:13-14 states: "Now King Solomon sent to bring Huram from Tyre. He was the son of a widow 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."

Hiram's contributions to the temple were extensive and included the crafting of two bronze pillars named Jachin and Boaz, the Sea of cast metal, and various other bronze furnishings and utensils. His work was characterized by intricate designs and superior quality, reflecting both his personal skill and the high standards of the temple project.

Symbolism and Legacy

Hiram's work on the temple is often seen as symbolic of the collaboration between Israel and the surrounding nations, particularly in the pursuit of a common goal that glorifies God. His craftsmanship not only served a practical purpose but also added to the aesthetic and spiritual grandeur of the temple, which was to be a dwelling place for the Lord's presence.

The legacy of Hiram as a master workman is a testament to the value of skill, dedication, and the harmonious blending of talents from diverse backgrounds. His account underscores the importance of using one's God-given abilities for the service of the divine and the community.

Biblical References

· 1 Kings 7:13-45
· 2 Chronicles 2:13-14

Hiram's role as a master workman is a reminder of the biblical principle that all work, when done with excellence and for the glory of God, is a form of worship. His contributions to Solomon's Temple continue to be celebrated as a pinnacle of ancient craftsmanship and devotion.

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1 Kings 7:13-50
And king Solomon sent and fetched Hiram out of Tyre.
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2 Chronicles 2:13,14
And now I have sent a cunning man, endued with understanding, of Huram my father's,
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2 Chronicles 4:11-18
And Huram made the pots, and the shovels, and the basins. And Huram finished the work that he was to make for king Solomon for the house of God;
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Library

Hiram, the Inspired Artificer
... and qualities of the mind of Christ, our Master and Teacher ... which filled the soul
of Bezalel or Hiram may not ... the peasant in the cottage, or the workman in the ...
/.../milligan/men of the bible some lesser-known/hiram the inspired artificer.htm

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
... of Israel; they were the servants of Hiram, king of ... building will not be good, nor
the workman have credit of ... him the building of the temple.'Master,' said they ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... her checks are like rows of jewels, and so are the joints of her thighs; even like
the jewels that are 'the work of the hands of a cunning workman' (Cant 1:9,10 ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm