METALWORKER

One who casts, hammers, carves, engraves or otherwise works with metals. (Isa. 41:7) The first “forger of every sort of tool of copper and iron” in recorded history was Tubal-cain. (Gen. 4:22) Ancient metalworkers made tools, household items, weapons, armor, musical instruments, ornaments and figurines. Besides fashioning new items, they also did repair work. (2 Chron. 24:12) Many were specialists in working such metals as gold (Neh. 3:8, 31, 32), silver (Judg. 17:4; Acts 19:24) or copper. (2 Tim. 4:14) At times they formed a kind of association or guild. (Neh. 3:31; Acts 19:24-28) Their trade called for skill in artistic design.

The Israelites may have had knowledge of metalworking prior to their entry into Egypt, or possibly acquired it there. By the time of the Exodus they had ability to fashion a molten calf and a copper serpent. (Ex. 32:4; Num. 21:9) More impressive, however, was the production of various metal items for the tabernacle service. Bezalel and his assistants were aided by Jehovah’s spirit in their metalworking.—Ex. 31:2, 3; 35:30-35.

Later, when oppressed by the Philistines, the Israelites were not allowed to have their own metalworkers. This measure prevented them from making weapons. (1 Sam. 13:19-22) Doubtless for similar reasons Nebuchadnezzar took the metalworkers and other craftsmen captive the first time he assaulted Jerusalem.—2 Ki. 24:14, 16; Jer. 24:1; 29:1, 2.