Topical Encyclopedia Silver, a precious metal highly valued in biblical times, played a significant role in the economic and religious life of ancient Israel and its surrounding nations. The working of silver as a trade involved various skilled artisans who crafted items ranging from currency to sacred objects.Biblical References and Context The Bible frequently mentions silver, highlighting its importance in trade, wealth, and religious practices. In Genesis 13:2, Abram is described as "very wealthy in livestock, silver, and gold," indicating the metal's role as a measure of wealth. Silver was also used as currency, as seen in Genesis 23:16, where Abraham purchases the cave of Machpelah with "four hundred shekels of silver, according to the current commercial rate." Craftsmanship and Trade The working of silver required skilled artisans, often referred to as silversmiths. These craftsmen were responsible for creating various items, including household goods, jewelry, and religious artifacts. In Exodus 31:4-5, Bezalel is described as being filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship, including working with silver. The trade of silversmithing was not only a practical skill but also held religious significance. In the construction of the Tabernacle, silver was used extensively. Exodus 26:19-25 details the use of silver bases for the frames of the Tabernacle, underscoring the metal's sacred use. Religious and Cultural Significance Silver's role extended beyond commerce and craftsmanship into religious practices. In the Temple, silver trumpets were used for calling the assembly and directing the movement of the camps (Numbers 10:2). The use of silver in religious contexts symbolized purity and redemption, as seen in the redemption money collected for the service of the Tabernacle (Exodus 30:11-16). The prophets often used silver metaphorically to convey spiritual truths. In Isaiah 1:22, the prophet laments, "Your silver has become dross, your choice wine is diluted with water," using the imagery of corrupted silver to describe Israel's moral decay. Economic Impact Silver's economic impact in biblical times was significant. It was a standard of wealth and a medium of exchange, facilitating trade both within Israel and with neighboring nations. The demand for silver drove trade routes and influenced economic policies. In 1 Kings 10:21, it is noted that "nothing was made of silver, because it was considered of little value in the days of Solomon," indicating the abundance and economic prosperity during his reign. Challenges and Idolatry Despite its value, the working of silver also posed spiritual challenges. The production of silver idols was a common practice among pagan nations, and Israel was often warned against such idolatry. In Isaiah 2:20, the prophet speaks of a day when people will "cast away their idols of silver and their idols of gold," emphasizing the futility of worshiping man-made objects. The New Testament also addresses the issue of silver and idolatry. In Acts 19:24-27, the silversmith Demetrius, who made silver shrines of Artemis, incites a riot against Paul, fearing the loss of income due to the apostle's preaching against idolatry. Conclusion The working of silver as a trade in biblical times was a multifaceted occupation that encompassed economic, religious, and cultural dimensions. From its use in sacred objects to its role in commerce, silver was a metal of great significance, reflecting both the material and spiritual values of the ancient world. Torrey's Topical Textbook Acts 19:24For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, which made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain to the craftsmen; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Christian Business World Laboring under Difficulties Priscilla and Aquila The Value of Life Acts xix. 8, 9 Gifts and Talents. Simon the Sorcerer The Ministry of Paul in Thessalonica, Berea, Athens, and Corinth. The Kingdom of God: Its Tasks The Eighth Commandment Resources Why does Matthew 27:9 attribute the prophecy to Jeremiah when it is from Zechariah? | GotQuestions.orgIs there any conclusive proof of God? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of dross in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Silver: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Silver for Ornamentation of, and in the Manufacture of, the Utensils for the Tabernacle Silver of Saints Purified by Affliction Silver of the Medo-Persian Kingdom Silver of the Tongue of the Just Silver of the Words of the Lord Silver used As Money from the Earliest Times Silver: (Dross of) of the Wicked Silver: (Labour of Seeking For) of Diligence Required For Silver: (Reprobate) the Wicked Silver: Baskets (Rv), or Filigree (Margin, RV) Silver: Generally Found in an Impure State Silver: Given by David and his Subjects for Making the Temple Silver: Given by the Israelite for Making the Tabernacle Silver: Made Into: Beds or Couches Silver: Made Into: Candlesticks Silver: Made Into: Ornaments and Hooks for the Pillars of the Tabernacle Silver: Made Into: Ornaments for the Person Silver: Made Into: Sockets for the Boards of the Tabernacle Silver: Made Into: Thin Plates Silver: Made Into: Wires (Alluded To) Silver: Often Given As Presents Silver: Purified, Called: Choice Silver Silver: Purified, Called: Refined Silver Silver: Taken in War often Consecrated to God Silver: Taken in War Purified by Fire Silver: Tarshish Carried on Extensive Commerce In Silver: The Patriarchs Rich In Silver: The Working In, a Trade Silver: Veins of, Found in the Earth Silver: Very Abundant in the Reign of Solomon Silver: Wisdom to be Esteemed More Than Related Terms |
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