Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the term "carpenter" referred to a craftsman skilled in working with wood, stone, and other materials. The role of a carpenter was essential in ancient society, as they were responsible for constructing buildings, crafting tools, and creating various household items. The Greek word for carpenter, "τέκτων" (tektōn), is used in the New Testament to describe the profession of Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, and by implication, Jesus Himself.Joseph the Carpenter Joseph, the husband of Mary and the legal father of Jesus, is identified as a carpenter in the Gospel of Matthew. In Matthew 13:55 , the people of Nazareth question Jesus' authority and wisdom, saying, "Is this not the carpenter’s son? Is not His mother called Mary, and His brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas?" This passage highlights Joseph's occupation and suggests that Jesus was known in His community as the son of a carpenter. Jesus as a Carpenter The Gospel of Mark also refers to Jesus' association with carpentry. In Mark 6:3 , the townspeople of Nazareth express their astonishment at Jesus' teachings and miracles, asking, "Is this not the carpenter, the son of Mary and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon? Are His sisters not here with us?" This indicates that Jesus Himself was recognized as a carpenter, having likely learned the trade from Joseph. Symbolism and Significance The role of a carpenter carries significant symbolic meaning in the context of Jesus' life and ministry. As a carpenter, Jesus would have been familiar with the labor and skill required to create and build, reflecting His role as the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. The humility and ordinariness of the profession also underscore the humility of Christ's incarnation, as He took on human form and lived among the people He came to save. Furthermore, the imagery of carpentry is used metaphorically in the New Testament to describe spiritual truths. For instance, in Matthew 7:24-27 , Jesus uses the analogy of building a house on a solid foundation to illustrate the importance of hearing and acting upon His words: "Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock." Cultural Context In the cultural context of first-century Palestine, carpenters were respected members of society, though not typically wealthy. They were essential for the construction and maintenance of homes, synagogues, and other structures. The skills of a carpenter would have included knowledge of various materials, tools, and techniques, making them versatile and resourceful craftsmen. The identification of Jesus as a carpenter also emphasizes His connection to the common people. He was not born into a family of wealth or political power but into a working-class household, aligning Himself with the everyday experiences and struggles of the people He ministered to. Conclusion The depiction of Jesus as a carpenter serves as a powerful reminder of His humility, His identification with humanity, and His role as the divine craftsman who shapes and builds the lives of those who follow Him. The profession of carpentry, with its emphasis on creation, construction, and craftsmanship, provides a rich metaphor for understanding the work and mission of Jesus Christ. Greek 5045. tekton -- a craftsman, spec. a carpenter ... a carpenter. Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: tekton Phonetic Spelling: (tek'-tone) Short Definition: a carpenter Definition: a carpenter, an ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5045.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 8279. sered -- a stylus... line. From sarad; a (carpenter's) scribing-awl (for pricking or scratching measurements) -- line. see HEBREW sarad. 8278, 8279. sered. 8280 . Strong's Numbers /hebrew/8279.htm - 6k Library "Is not this the Carpenter's Son?" He Perished under Divine Wrath. visions of the Emperor's Death ... Acts of the Holy Apostle Thomas, when He came into India, and ... Christ's Boyhood His Training. Christ's Ministry Begins. Of the Prediction of the Pedagogue. Chapter twenty-six "Something" The Master Rejected: the Servants Sent Forth Thesaurus Carpenter's (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Carpenter's (1 Occurrence). Matthew 13:55 Isn't this the carpenter's son? Isn't his mother called Mary, and ... /c/carpenter's.htm - 6k Carpenters (11 Occurrences) Joses (7 Occurrences) Isn't (154 Occurrences) Mother's (102 Occurrences) Bench (1 Occurrence) Brothers (574 Occurrences) Carpet (1 Occurrence) Crew (7 Occurrences) Carpenter (4 Occurrences) Resources How many siblings did Jesus have? | GotQuestions.orgIs the perpetual virginity of Mary biblical? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to be a root out of dry ground (Isaiah 53:2)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Carpenter's (1 Occurrence)Matthew 13:55 Subtopics Related Terms |
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