[Greek] τεχνίτης (technitēs), [Latin] structor, [Latin] artifex: craftsman, artisan, builder, artisan; Acts 19:24,38, Heb 11:10, Rev.18:22
Remnants of the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus (near the present day town Selcuk in Turkey)
Background information:
Greek Hellenism: This term means artificer, craftsman, potter, skilled workman, person, person versed in religious practice, and artist. Plato’s Republic 530a states “He will be willing to concede that the artisan of heaven fashioned it, and all that it contains in the best possible manner for such a fabric.” Xenophon’s Memorabilia 2.7.5 states “What is an artisan? One who knows how to produce something useful.” Xenophon’s Constitution of the Lacedaemonians 13.5 states “And so, could you watch the scene you would think all other mean mere improvisors and the Lacedaemonian the only artists in warfare.” Xenophon’s Memorabilia 1.4.9 states “Yes, for I don’t see the master’s hand, whereas I see the makers of things in this world.”
Old Testament: This term means artisan, craftsman, expert, workman, mason, engraver, and carpenter. The work of the hands of an artist (Sng.7:1). And from studying the works did not discern the artisan (Wis.13:1). An abomination to the Lord, thw work of the hands of the craftsman (Deu.27:15). Then they gave money to the masons and carpenters (Ezr.3:7). As for the idol, a craftsman casts it (Isa.40:19). There are many workmen with you, stonecutters, and masons of stone and carpenters, and all men who are skillful in every kind of work (1Chr.22:15).
New Testament: This term means craftsman, skilled workman, and designer. The silversmiths (craftsmen) in Ephesus made miniature shrines (idols) to the goddess Artemis. Artemis was worshiped as a fertility and nature goddess in the Hellenistic culture. In response to Paul’s claim that these shrines were not gods, these silversmiths rioted. The silversmiths were very worried about their idols. By faith Abraham was called to go out to a place where he was to receive his inheritance. He was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and maker is God.
Scripture:
“There was a silversmith named Demetrius who made miniature silver shrines of Artemis and provided not little work for the craftsmen.” Acts 19:24
The silversmiths made idols to Artemis, the Hellenistic god of nature and fertility.
“For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and maker is God.” Heb.11:10
Abraham is ultimately seeking a city which was built by God.
Current culture: In a sense, many of us have almost become like little pagans bowing down to technology, smartphones, and other gadgets, etc. Some strive (‘worship’) for fortune, fame, or wealth. We get upset when our phones, computers, and other electronic gadgets are missing, lost, or broken down. (We cry out in fear when this happens. Count me in this category). Many of us have spent much time “bowing down” in texting on our smartphones. (At least, I am not this far gone because I do not text much). In fact, there is a medical condition of neck stiffness, strain, and soreness from extended periods of bending the neck. This condition is called “tech neck.”
Conclusion:
Artifice, artificial, construction, technical
In the Greek Hellenistic culture, it is interesting to note that this term can be conveyed in a religious sense (silversmiths). Xenophon makes reference to artisans (specialists) in military warfare. Perhaps these are elite soldiers. Plato develops the notion of a craftsman or designer of the cosmos. This notion comes somewhat towards the later Christian understanding of the universe.
In the Old Testament, artisans, craftsmen, and carpenters play a central role in developing the simple and rural communities. There are instances where craftsmen build pagan idols.
In the New Testament, Paul provokes a riot among the silversmiths when he claims that the shrines are not gods. Hebrews alludes to a city (with foundations) built and designed by God.
Artifice is the workmanship or making of something by craft or skill. Artifice may also imply a sense of falseness and trickery.
However, there is nothing artificial in how this term has been crafted (made) over history.
Next posts: receiving ashes; the broken shards of life