### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chôrêsh**, represented by `{{H2794}}`, translates to **artificer**, a term for a fabricator or mechanic. It is an extremely rare word, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text. Its meaning is tied directly to the act of fabrication and craftsmanship, specifically in metalworking.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H2794}}` is found in the genealogy of Cain. The scripture identifies Tubalcain as an "instructer of every **artificer** in brass and iron" [[Genesis 4:22]]. This passage establishes the role of the **artificer** at a very early stage of human history as a master of working with fundamental metals, establishing a legacy of skilled craftsmanship.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the skills and materials of the **artificer**:
* `{{H3913}}` **lâṭash** (instructer, sharpen, whet): This word, used to describe Tubalcain's role as an "instructer" [[Genesis 4:22]], fundamentally means to sharpen by hammering out an edge. It is also used in the context of sharpening swords [[Psalms 7:12]] and agricultural tools [[1 Samuel 13:20]].
* `{{H1270}}` **barzel** (iron): As one of the primary materials of the **artificer**, **iron** is mentioned in the foundational verse [[Genesis 4:22]]. It is often used elsewhere to symbolize strength, as in "shoes shall be **iron**" [[Deuteronomy 33:25]], or stubbornness, as in an "**iron** sinew" [[Isaiah 48:4]].
* `{{H5178}}` **nᵉchôsheth** (brass, copper): This is the other metal associated with the work of the **artificer** [[Genesis 4:22]]. It is used for making significant objects like the **brasen** serpent [[Numbers 21:9]] and for symbolic fortifications, such as the "**brasen** walls" promised to Jeremiah [[Jeremiah 1:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2794}}` is derived entirely from its unique context and its association with key materials.
* **Origin of Industry:** Its sole appearance in Genesis marks the biblical origin point for specialized craftsmanship and metalworking, attributing this development to the line of Cain through Tubalcain [[Genesis 4:22]].
* **Symbolism of Materials:** The metals handled by the **artificer**, iron and brass, are later used throughout scripture as powerful metaphors. They represent concepts of divine fortification, as with Jeremiah's "iron pillar" [[Jeremiah 1:18]], and affliction, such as Egypt being an "iron furnace" [[Jeremiah 11:4]].
* **Foundation of Skill:** The term introduces the concept of sharpening and fabricating, a skill that is both practical for tools [[1 Samuel 13:20]] and used metaphorically for conflict, as when an enemy "sharpeneth his eyes" [[Job 16:9]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H2794}}` is a term with a singular biblical footprint, its importance is significant. As **artificer**, it introduces the theme of human industry and technological advancement early in the Genesis narrative. Its context provides a foundation for the later symbolic use of iron and brass, linking this early craftsmanship to broader biblical themes of strength, judgment, and divine provision.
TRV