active participle of חָרַשׁ; a fabricator or mechanic; artificer.
Transliteration:chôrêsh
Pronunciation:kho-rashe'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2794}}` (חֹרֵשׁ, *chôrêsh*) functions as an active participle derived from the verb `{{H2790}}` (חָרַשׁ, *charash*). The root verb `{{H2790}}` carries a broad semantic range, encompassing actions such as "to cut in, engrave, plow, devise, or be silent." As an active participle, `{{H2794}}` specifically denotes "one who performs the action of the verb." Therefore, *chôrêsh* signifies an "artificer," "craftsman," "fabricator," or "mechanic"—one who skillfully works with materials to shape or create.
The semantic range of `{{H2794}}` is primarily focused on manual dexterity and expertise in various trades. It refers to individuals who possess the skill to transform raw materials into finished products. This can include working with wood, metal, stone, and other substances. The term inherently implies a level of specialized knowledge, precision, and creative ability in the execution of a craft.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H2794}}` appears throughout the Hebrew Bible, often in contexts related to construction, art, and the making of idols.
One prominent context is the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple. For instance, in [[Exodus 35:35]], Bezalel and Oholiab are described as those whom God "has filled with skill to do every sort of work done by an engraver or by a designer or by an embroiderer in blue and purple and scarlet yarns and fine twined linen, or by a weaver—by any sort of workman or skilled designer" (ESV). Here, *chôrêsh* (translated as "workman" or "artificer") is linked directly to divine enablement, highlighting that the skills necessary for sacred craftsmanship are God-given. Similarly, [[2 Chronicles 2:7]] and [[2 Chronicles 2:14]] mention King Solomon's request for skilled *chôrêsh* from Tyre for the Temple construction, indicating the high regard for their expertise. [[2 Chronicles 24:12]] also notes the employment of *chôrêsh* in the repair of the house of the Lord under Joash.
Another significant usage of `{{H2794}}` is in prophetic condemnations of idolatry. Prophets frequently mock the futility of worshipping idols made by human hands. [[Isaiah 40:20]] describes the idol-maker (*chôrêsh*) choosing wood that will not rot and seeking a skillful *chôrêsh* to set up an image that will not move. [[Isaiah 44:11]] and [[Jeremiah 10:9]] further elaborate on the *chôrêsh* creating these lifeless images, emphasizing the absurdity of worshipping something fashioned by human hands. [[Hosea 8:6]] similarly critiques the golden calf, stating, "For from Israel it is, a *chôrêsh* made it; it is not God." In these contexts, the skill of the *chôrêsh* is ironically contrasted with the powerlessness of the resulting idol.
The term also appears in more general societal contexts, such as [[1 Samuel 13:19]], which mentions the lack of a *chôrêsh* (smith) in Israel, forcing the Israelites to go to the Philistines for sharpening their tools. This highlights the practical necessity of such skilled labor for everyday life and national defense.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for `{{H2794}}` is its root verb, `{{H2790}}` (חָרַשׁ, *charash*), which, as noted, means "to cut, engrave, plow, devise, or be silent." The "plowing" aspect suggests shaping or preparing the earth, drawing a parallel to the artificer's shaping of materials. The "devising" aspect points to the intentionality, planning, and intellectual engagement inherent in skilled craftsmanship.
Other related Hebrew terms and concepts include:
* `{{H2627}}` (חָכָם, *chakham*): Often translated as "wise," but in the context of craftsmanship, it frequently denotes "skillful" or "expert." For example, Bezalel and Oholiab are described as being filled with "wisdom" (*chakham*) for all kinds of craftsmanship (`{{H2794}}`) in [[Exodus 31:3]] and [[Exodus 35:31]]. This connection emphasizes that true skill is not merely manual but also involves divine wisdom and insight.
* `{{H4639}}` (מְלָאכָה, *mela'kah*): This noun refers to "work," "occupation," or "craftsmanship" in a broader sense, often encompassing the output or product of the *chôrêsh*.
* `{{H6467}}` (פָּעַל, *pa'al*): A general verb meaning "to do," "make," or "work," which describes the action performed by the *chôrêsh*.
* The concept of creation (בָּרָא, *bara*) is implicitly related, as the *chôrêsh* engages in a form of sub-creation, shaping existing materials, albeit distinct from God's ex nihilo creation.
* The contrast between divine power and human limitation is a recurring theme, particularly in the context of idol-making, where the *chôrêsh* creates objects that are inherently powerless.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2794}}` is multifaceted:
1. **Divine Gifting and Enablement:** The most profound theological implication is found in the Tabernacle/Temple narratives. The skills of the *chôrêsh* are not merely human talents but are explicitly presented as gifts from God, infused by His Spirit ([[Exodus 31:3-5]], [[Exodus 35:30-35]]). This elevates human craftsmanship, particularly when dedicated to sacred purposes, to a divinely ordained and empowered activity. It underscores that all human abilities, especially those used for God's glory, originate from Him.
2. **Human Creativity as Imago Dei:** The ability of the *chôrêsh* to conceive, design, and shape materials reflects a facet of humanity's creation in the imago Dei. Just as God is the ultimate Creator and Designer, humans, in a derivative sense, are endowed with the capacity for creativity and artistry. This capacity finds its highest expression when employed in service to the Creator.
3. **Critique of Idolatry:** In stark contrast to its positive role in sacred construction, `{{H2794}}` is frequently used in prophetic literature to expose the folly of idolatry. The *chôrêsh* creates the idol, which is then worshipped, highlighting the absurdity of venerating an object made by human hands ([[Isaiah 44:9-20]], [[Jeremiah 10:3-9]]). This usage serves as a powerful theological polemic, emphasizing the absolute distinction between the living God (the ultimate Creator) and dead idols (the products of human craftsmanship). It underscores that human skill, when misdirected, can lead to spiritual blindness and rebellion.
4. **Societal Provision and Order:** The presence of *chôrêsh* indicates a developed and ordered society. Their skills are essential for infrastructure, tools, and daily necessities. The Bible implicitly acknowledges the importance of such specialized labor for the functioning and well-being of a community.
### Summary
The Hebrew term `{{H2794}}` (חֹרֵשׁ, *chôrêsh*) designates a skilled artisan, artificer, or craftsman—one who proficiently shapes and fabricates materials. Derived from `{{H2790}}` (חָרַשׁ, *charash*), meaning "to cut, engrave, or devise," *chôrêsh* encompasses a range of skilled trades, from woodworking and metalworking to stone masonry and engraving.
Biblically, the term features prominently in two contrasting theological contexts. On one hand, it highlights the divine gifting and enablement for the construction of the Tabernacle and Temple, where the skills of the *chôrêsh* are seen as Spirit-empowered for sacred purposes. On the other hand, *chôrêsh* is frequently used by the prophets to expose the utter futility and absurdity of idolatry, as human-made objects are worshipped in place of the living God.
Theologically, *chôrêsh* points to human creativity as a reflection of the divine imago Dei, while simultaneously serving as a powerful reminder of the danger of misdirected human skill leading to the worship of the created rather than the Creator. Ultimately, the term underscores the profound significance of human labor and skill, whether used for God's glory or in vain and idolatrous pursuits.
TRV