Topical Encyclopedia A tentmaker in biblical times was an artisan skilled in the craft of making tents, which were essential for nomadic living and travel in the ancient Near East. The term is most notably associated with the Apostle Paul, who is described as a tentmaker by trade. This occupation is mentioned in the context of Paul's missionary journeys and his efforts to support himself financially while spreading the Gospel.Biblical References: 1. Acts 18:1-3 : "After this, Paul left Athens and went to Corinth. There he found a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all the Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to visit them, and because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked. They were tentmakers by trade." This passage highlights Paul's connection with Aquila and Priscilla, a couple who shared his profession. Their common trade provided a means for Paul to sustain himself without being a financial burden to the fledgling Christian communities he was establishing. 2. 1 Corinthians 4:12 : "We work hard with our own hands. When we are vilified, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it." Although not directly mentioning tentmaking, this verse reflects Paul's commitment to manual labor, which included his tentmaking work. It underscores his dedication to self-sufficiency and his desire to model a strong work ethic for the believers. 3. 1 Thessalonians 2:9 : "Surely you recall, brothers, our labor and toil; we worked night and day so that we would not be a burden to any of you, while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God." Here, Paul emphasizes his efforts to avoid being a financial burden to the Thessalonian church, likely through his tentmaking activities. This approach allowed him to preach the Gospel freely and maintain his integrity as a minister. Cultural and Historical Context: Tentmaking was a respected trade in the ancient world, requiring skill in working with materials such as leather and woven goat hair. Tents were vital for shelter and were used by nomads, travelers, and armies. The craft of tentmaking would have involved cutting, sewing, and assembling these materials into durable structures. Paul's choice to engage in tentmaking reflects a broader principle of self-reliance and industriousness. By working with his hands, Paul not only provided for his own needs but also set an example for the early Christian communities. His tentmaking served as a practical demonstration of his teachings on work and stewardship. Theological Implications: Paul's tentmaking is often viewed as an embodiment of the principle that ministry and secular work can coexist harmoniously. His ability to balance his trade with his apostolic mission illustrates the value of integrating faith with everyday life. This dual role allowed Paul to connect with people from various walks of life, using his trade as a platform for evangelism and discipleship. Furthermore, Paul's tentmaking underscores the biblical teaching that all work, when done for the glory of God, is honorable and meaningful. It challenges believers to view their vocations as opportunities for ministry and service, regardless of the nature of their work. In summary, the role of a tentmaker, as exemplified by Paul, provides a model for Christian living that emphasizes diligence, self-sufficiency, and the integration of faith with daily labor. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) One whose occupation it is to make tents.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia TENT-MAKERtent'-mak-er (skenopoios): Mentioned only once (Acts 18:3). Paul's native province of Cilicia was noted for its goats' hair cloth which was exported under the name of cilicium and was used largely for tentmaking. We are told in the passage mentioned that Paul dwelt with Aquila and Priscilla, and worked with them at tent-making (compare Acts 20:34). Library A Discourse of the Building, Nature, Excellency, and Government of ... There Might Also be Found in the Writings of Moses and of the ... Acts xix. 21, 23 Rom. I. 8 His Missionary Travels A Homily on Guria and Shamuna, Composed by Mar Jacob. Moravians and Methodists, 1735-1742. Priscilla and Aquila The Waldenses 2 Cor. Iv. 1, 2 Thesaurus Tentmaker/t/tentmaker.htm - 7k Tenths (22 Occurrences) Tent-maker (1 Occurrence) Carpenter (4 Occurrences) Resources What is Christian tentmaking? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean "to live is Christ" (Philippians 1:21)? | GotQuestions.org What is a bi-vocational pastor? | GotQuestions.org Tentmaker: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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