A silver-worker, in biblical times, was an artisan skilled in the crafting and shaping of silver into various objects, including idols, household items, and currency. The role of the silver-worker is mentioned in several passages of the Bible, highlighting both the economic and religious significance of their craft.

Biblical References:

1. Idolatry and Economic Impact:
One of the most notable references to silver-workers is found in the Book of Acts, where the Apostle Paul’s ministry in Ephesus led to a significant decline in the demand for silver idols. This is particularly evident in the account of Demetrius, a silversmith who crafted silver shrines of the goddess Artemis. Concerned about the impact of Paul's teachings on their trade, Demetrius rallied his fellow craftsmen, saying, "Men, you know that this business is our source of prosperity" (Acts 19:25). This incident underscores the economic reliance on idol-making and the tension between early Christian evangelism and traditional pagan practices.

2. Craftsmanship and Skill:
The skill of silver-workers is acknowledged in the Old Testament, where artisans were called upon to create intricate designs for the Tabernacle and Temple. Although specific references to silver-workers are less frequent than those to goldsmiths or other craftsmen, the use of silver in sacred contexts implies a high level of craftsmanship. For instance, silver was used in the construction of the Tabernacle, as described in Exodus, where the bases for the sanctuary's frames were made of silver (Exodus 26:19).

3. Symbolism and Value:
Silver, as a precious metal, often symbolizes wealth and purity in the Bible. The value of silver is highlighted in various passages, such as in the account of Joseph, who was sold by his brothers for twenty pieces of silver (Genesis 37:28). This transaction not only reflects the economic value of silver but also its role in significant biblical narratives.

4. Moral and Spiritual Lessons:
The Bible also uses silver metaphorically to convey moral and spiritual lessons. In Proverbs, the refining of silver is likened to the testing of a person's character: "The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart" (Proverbs 17:3). This imagery emphasizes the process of purification and the divine evaluation of human integrity.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient Near East, silver-workers were integral to both the economy and religious practices. Their craft was not only a means of livelihood but also a reflection of the cultural and spiritual values of the time. The production of silver idols and religious artifacts was a common practice, and the skills of these artisans were highly regarded.

The role of silver-workers, as depicted in the Bible, provides insight into the broader socio-economic and religious landscape of biblical times. Their work, while often associated with idolatry, also contributed to the material culture of ancient Israel and its neighbors, illustrating the complex interplay between faith, economy, and artistry.Silver-worker (2 Occurrences)

Acts 19:24
For there was a certain man named Demetrius, a silver-worker, who made silver boxes for the images of Diana, and gave no small profit to the workmen;
(BBE)

Proverbs 25:4
Take away the waste from silver, and a vessel will come out for the silver-worker.
(BBE)

Silver-worker (2 Occurrences)
Silver-worker. Silver-smith, Silver-worker. Simalcue . Multi-Version
Concordance Silver-worker (2 Occurrences). Acts ...
/s/silver-worker.htm - 7k

Workmen (52 Occurrences)
... Acts 19:24 For there was a certain man named Demetrius, a silver-worker, who made
silver boxes for the images of Diana, and gave no small profit to the workmen ...
/w/workmen.htm - 23k

Worker (36 Occurrences)
... Acts 19:24 For there was a certain man named Demetrius, a silver-worker, who made
silver boxes for the images of Diana, and gave no small profit to the workmen ...
/w/worker.htm - 20k

Profit (143 Occurrences)
... Acts 19:24 For there was a certain man named Demetrius, a silver-worker, who made
silver boxes for the images of Diana, and gave no small profit to the workmen ...
/p/profit.htm - 35k

Boxes (3 Occurrences)
... Acts 19:24 For there was a certain man named Demetrius, a silver-worker, who made
silver boxes for the images of Diana, and gave no small profit to the workmen ...
/b/boxes.htm - 7k

Smith (7 Occurrences)
... RSV NIV). Proverbs 25:4 Take away the waste from silver, and a vessel will
come out for the silver-worker. (See NAS RSV NIV). Isaiah ...
/s/smith.htm - 9k

Simalcue

/s/simalcue.htm - 6k

Silver-smith (1 Occurrence)
Silver-smith. Silversmith, Silver-smith. Silver-worker . Multi-Version Concordance ...
Silversmith, Silver-smith. Silver-worker . Reference Bible.
/s/silver-smith.htm - 6k

Images (158 Occurrences)
... Acts 19:24 For there was a certain man named Demetrius, a silver-worker, who made
silver boxes for the images of Diana, and gave no small profit to the workmen ...
/i/images.htm - 70k

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