### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **argyrokópos**, represented by `{{G695}}`, identifies a **silversmith**. Derived from words for silver and "to beat," it describes a worker or beater of silver. It appears **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, identifying a specific craftsman in a moment of significant conflict.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G695}}` occurs in the narrative of a riot in Ephesus. A **silversmith** named Demetrius is introduced as one who "made `{{G4160}}` silver `{{G693}}` shrines `{{G3485}}` for Diana `{{G735}}`" [[Acts 19:24]]. This craft was highly profitable, bringing "no `{{G3756}}` small `{{G3641}}` gain `{{G2039}}`" to Demetrius and his fellow craftsmen `{{G5079}}`. The term is therefore used to establish the economic basis for the opposition to the apostle Paul's ministry in the city.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of this occupation:
* `{{G1216}}` **Dēmḗtrios** (Demetrius): This is the name given to the specific **silversmith** who initiated the protest against the apostles in Ephesus [[Acts 19:24]].
* `{{G2039}}` **ergasía** (craft, gain, work): This word highlights the financial motivation behind the silversmiths' actions, referring both to their "craft" `{{G2039}}` and the "gain" `{{G2039}}` it produced ([[Acts 19:24]], [[Acts 19:25]]).
* `{{G3485}}` **naós** (shrine, temple): This identifies the product made by the **silversmith**—silver **shrines** for a pagan goddess [[Acts 19:24]]. The same word is used elsewhere to describe believers as the **temple** of the living God [[2 Corinthians 6:16]].
* `{{G735}}` **Ártemis** (Diana): This identifies the Grecian goddess at the center of the Ephesian economy and worship. The silversmiths' trade was dedicated to making items for the worship of **Diana** [[Acts 19:24]].
* `{{G5079}}` **technítēs** (craftsman, builder): This is the general term for the artisans, including the **silversmith**, who profited from the idol trade [[Acts 19:24]]. In a contrasting spiritual sense, it is used to describe God as the **builder** of the heavenly city [[Hebrews 11:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G695}}` arises entirely from the conflict it represents in the book of Acts.
* **Idolatry and Commerce:** The role of the **silversmith** demonstrates the powerful link between a local economy and false worship. The craft was profitable precisely because it created objects for the worship of **Diana** [[Acts 19:24]].
* **Conflict with the Gospel:** The gospel message directly threatened the livelihood of the **silversmith** and other craftsmen `{{G5079}}`. Demetrius feared that his craft `{{G2039}}` was in danger of being set to nought [[Acts 19:27]], showing how spiritual truth can disrupt economic systems built on falsehood.
* **Man-Made vs. Divine Temples:** The work of the **silversmith** in making silver **shrines** `{{G3485}}` [[Acts 19:24]] stands in stark opposition to the biblical truth that God does not dwell in **temples** made with hands [[Acts 17:24]]. The New Testament teaches that believers themselves are the **temple** of God [[1 Corinthians 3:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G695}}` is a highly specific term whose single biblical appearance is pivotal. It moves beyond a simple job title to represent the entire industry of Ephesian idolatry. The story of Demetrius the **silversmith** provides a clear illustration of the clash between the kingdom of God and worldly economies that are dependent on practices contrary to the gospel.
TRV