### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term ἀργυροκόπος (argyrokópos), Strong's number `{{G695}}`, is a compound word derived from two elements: ἄργυρος (argyros), meaning "silver" (`{{G696}}`), and κόπτω (koptō), meaning "to strike, beat, cut" (`{{G2875}}`). Literally, it denotes "one who beats or strikes silver." This etymology precisely defines the professional activity of a "silversmith"—an artisan who works with silver, shaping it through hammering, cutting, or other manipulative processes. The semantic range is quite narrow, referring specifically to this craft, emphasizing the physical labor involved in transforming raw silver into finished articles. It implies a skilled craftsman, adept at working with a precious metal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word ἀργυροκόπος (argyrokópos) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Acts 19:24]]. This singular occurrence is profoundly significant, as it is central to the narrative of the riot in Ephesus. The verse states: "For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, who made silver shrines of Artemis, brought no little business to the craftsmen."
In this context, Demetrius is identified by his profession, which was directly tied to the pervasive idolatry in Ephesus. He and his fellow silversmiths profited immensely from crafting miniature silver shrines of Artemis, the patron goddess of Ephesus, whose temple was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Paul's preaching, which declared that "gods made with hands are not gods" ([[Acts 19:26]]), directly threatened their livelihood and the religious-economic system built around the worship of Artemis. The silversmiths, led by Demetrius, instigated a riot, demonstrating the potent clash between the emerging Christian faith and deeply entrenched pagan practices and their associated economic interests. The term here is not merely descriptive but highlights the material and commercial foundations of idolatry.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several terms and concepts are closely related to ἀργυροκόπος (argyrokópos).
* **ἄργυρος (argyros)** `{{G696}}`: The material itself, silver, which was not only used for cultic objects but also as currency, underscoring the economic dimension.
* **κόπτω (koptō)** `{{G2875}}`: The action of striking or beating, which is fundamental to the silversmith's craft. This root emphasizes the manual, skilled labor involved.
* **δημιουργός (dēmiourgos)** `{{G1217}}`: A more general term for a craftsman or artisan, encompassing those who work with various materials. The silversmith is a specific type of δημιουργός.
* **εἰδωλοποιός (eidōlopoios)**: Though not a direct synonym, the silversmith in Ephesus functioned as an "idol-maker," creating objects for pagan worship. This concept is central to the conflict in Acts 19.
* **Idolatry and Pagan Worship:** The profession of the silversmith, in this specific biblical context, is inextricably linked to the practice of idolatry and the economic systems that supported it.
* **Craftsmanship and Economy:** The term points to human skill and its application within the economy of the ancient world, particularly when that economy was intertwined with religious practices.
### Theological Significance
While ἀργυροκόπος (argyrokópos) is primarily a descriptive term for a trade, its single biblical occurrence imbues it with significant theological implications.
1. **The Nature of Idolatry:** The silversmith's craft, in the Ephesian context, underscores the human origin of idols. Gods "made with hands" ([[Acts 19:26]]) stand in stark contrast to the living God, who is uncreated and transcends human manipulation. This highlights the futility and emptiness of worshipping created things.
2. **Conflict Between Kingdoms:** The riot incited by Demetrius vividly illustrates the inherent conflict between the Kingdom of God and worldly systems, particularly when those systems are built upon idolatry and economic exploitation. The Gospel's challenge to spiritual darkness inevitably impacts material interests.
3. **The Gospel's Disruptive Power:** The presence of the silversmiths and their opposition demonstrates the disruptive, transformative power of the Gospel. It challenges not only individual beliefs but also societal structures, economic practices, and religious traditions that stand contrary to God's truth.
4. **Human Skill and Its Application:** The term also implicitly raises questions about the application of human skill and creativity. While craftsmanship itself is not inherently evil, its use in promoting false worship becomes problematic. It serves as a reminder that human ingenuity can be employed for purposes that are either glorifying to God or antithetical to His will.
### Summary
The Greek word ἀργυροκόπος (argyrokópos), Strong's number `{{G695}}`, precisely defines a "silversmith"—an artisan who works with silver, often by striking or shaping it. Its singular, yet highly impactful, appearance in [[Acts 19:24]] places it at the heart of the Ephesian riot, where Demetrius, a silversmith, incited opposition to Paul. This was due to the threat the Gospel posed to his lucrative business of crafting silver shrines for the goddess Artemis. The term thus symbolizes the human craftsmanship behind idols and the powerful economic interests intertwined with pagan worship, underscoring the profound clash between the transformative message of the Gospel and entrenched worldly systems of idolatry and commerce.
TRV