Topical Encyclopedia A coppersmith in biblical times was a craftsman who worked with copper and its alloys, such as bronze, to create various items, including tools, weapons, and household utensils. The role of the coppersmith was significant in ancient societies due to the utility and durability of copper products.Biblical References: The most notable mention of a coppersmith in the Bible is found in the New Testament, specifically in the writings of the Apostle Paul. In 2 Timothy 4:14, Paul warns Timothy about a coppersmith named Alexander: "Alexander the coppersmith did me great harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds" . This reference indicates that Alexander was a person of some influence or notoriety, and his actions were significant enough to be recorded in Paul's epistle. The nature of the harm Alexander caused is not detailed, but it suggests opposition to Paul's ministry or personal attacks against him. Historical Context: In the ancient Near East, coppersmiths were essential for the development of technology and trade. Copper was one of the first metals to be used by humans, and its discovery marked a significant advancement in tool-making and craftsmanship. The skills of a coppersmith were highly valued, as they could produce a wide range of items necessary for daily life and warfare. The process of working with copper involved mining the ore, smelting it to extract the metal, and then shaping it into the desired form. This required a high level of skill and knowledge, as well as access to resources such as fuel for smelting and tools for shaping the metal. Cultural and Religious Significance: In the broader biblical narrative, metals like copper and bronze are often associated with strength and durability. For example, in the construction of the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem, bronze was used extensively for various furnishings and implements (Exodus 27:1-6, 1 Kings 7:13-47). This use of bronze highlights its importance and the skill of the coppersmiths who crafted these sacred objects. The mention of a coppersmith in the New Testament also reflects the diverse social and economic landscape of the early Christian communities. Artisans like coppersmiths were part of the urban fabric of cities where the early church was established, and their interactions with Christian leaders could have significant implications for the spread of the Gospel. Moral and Ethical Considerations: The reference to Alexander the coppersmith in 2 Timothy serves as a cautionary note about the potential for individuals to oppose or harm the work of the church. It underscores the reality of spiritual and personal opposition that believers may face. Paul's response, entrusting judgment to the Lord, reflects a reliance on divine justice rather than personal retribution. In summary, the role of the coppersmith in biblical times was both practical and symbolic, representing the intersection of daily life, craftsmanship, and the unfolding account of God's people. The mention of Alexander the coppersmith in the New Testament provides insight into the challenges faced by early Christians and the enduring call to trust in God's justice. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) One whose occupation is to manufacture copper utensils; a worker in copper.Greek 223. Alexandros -- Alexander, a son of Simon of Cyrene, also a ... ... Alexander, a son of Simon of Cyrene, also a coppersmith, also two Jews. Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: Alexandros Phonetic Spelling: (al-ex'-an ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/223.htm - 6k 5471. chalkeus -- a worker in metal Library Walamir and Eutyches De Sermone Domini in Monte, Lib. I. 22, 73. Christ's Flesh in Nature, the Same as Ours, Only Sinless the ... Chapter xxii. Rom. xvi. 17, 18 Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility Homilies on Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians. Psalm CXI. Martin Rinkart Bishops of Heretical Opinions Ordained in Antioch after the ... Thesaurus Coppersmith (1 Occurrence)... copper. Multi-Version Concordance Coppersmith (1 Occurrence). 2 Timothy 4:14 Alexander, the coppersmith, did much evil to me. The ... /c/coppersmith.htm - 6k Copper (55 Occurrences) Alexander (5 Occurrences) Repay (79 Occurrences) Copper-smith (1 Occurrence) Smith (7 Occurrences) Deal (170 Occurrences) Render (95 Occurrences) Deeds (309 Occurrences) Reward (213 Occurrences) Resources Who was Alexander the coppersmith in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was Paul's thorn in the flesh? | GotQuestions.org Who was Tubal-Cain in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Coppersmith: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Coppersmith (1 Occurrence)2 Timothy 4:14 Subtopics Related Terms |
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