Metalworking Marvel: χαλκεύς (Strong’s G5471: chalkeus) Shapes Biblical Narratives

Strong’s G5471: A craftsman or artisan who works with copper, bronze, or other metals, derived from χαλκός (copper/bronze). In ancient contexts, represents skilled metalworkers who were vital to society, creating both practical implements and sacred vessels. Notable for its precise technical meaning and cultural significance in biblical times.

U- Unveiling the Word

The χαλκεύς was more than just a metalworker – this artisan represented a crucial pillar of ancient society. Working primarily with copper and bronze (and later iron), these craftsmen were essential for creating everything from weapons and tools to religious artifacts and household items. In the biblical context, the χαλκεύς held a position of both respect and potential influence, as their skills could be used either to serve God’s purposes (like Bezalel in crafting the tabernacle’s implements) or for more mundane or even harmful purposes. The word carries particular weight in its New Testament usage, where it appears in reference to Alexander the coppersmith who opposed Paul’s ministry, highlighting how technical skill and spiritual disposition don’t always align.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: χαλκεύς, chalkeus, /khal-KYOOS/
• Detailed pronunciation: khal (as in ‘chalk’) + kyoos (as in ‘use’)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• χαλκός (chalkos) – base word meaning “copper” or “bronze”
• -εύς (-eus) – suffix indicating occupation or profession
• Together forming “one who works with copper/bronze”

D – Defining Meanings

• Primary metalworker or craftsman specializing in copper/bronze
• Artisan skilled in metal casting and shaping
• General metalsmith (in later usage)

For compound words:
The word is not compound but derives from χαλκός with the occupational suffix -εύς

Translation Options:

• Coppersmith – Most precise when referring to ancient context
• Metalworker – Broader term reflecting later usage
• Bronze-worker – Specific to bronze-age context

E – Exploring Similar Words

• χαλκός (chalkos, /khal-KOS/) – the metal copper or bronze itself See G5475
• χάλκεον (chalkeon, /KHAL-ke-on/) – made of copper/bronze
• σιδηρεύς (sidereus, /si-de-REUS/) – ironworker

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological features as a noun:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular and Plural
• Gender: Masculine
• Declension: Third declension

Example morphological changes:

• Nominative singular: χαλκεύς
• Genitive singular: χαλκέως
• Dative singular: χαλκεῖ
• Accusative singular: χαλκέα

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The rich lexical history of χαλκεύς reveals its technical precision and cultural importance. BDAG emphasizes its specific connection to copper and bronze working, while Thayer’s expands this to include general metalworking. LSJ provides extensive classical references showing the word’s evolution from strictly copper-working to broader metalworking applications. Vine’s notes its technical nature and specialized meaning. Moulton and Milligan’s papyrological evidence demonstrates its common usage in everyday commercial contexts, where χαλκεύς often appeared in contracts and receipts, indicating the profession’s formal recognition in society.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First Appearance:
Alexander the [χαλκεύς] coppersmith did me much harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds. 2 Timothy 4:14

Additional References:
This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The χαλκεύς represents more than just a technical profession – it embodies the intersection of human skill and divine purpose. While the word’s only New Testament appearance describes an opponent of Paul, it reminds us that our talents and abilities can either serve or oppose God’s kingdom. This word teaches us that technical skill must be paired with godly character, pointing to the Messiah as the perfect example of using one’s abilities for God’s glory. The χαλκεύς tradition continues to remind us that all work can be sacred when dedicated to His service.

D – Did You Know?

• The skills of a χαλκεύς were often passed down through families, creating dynasties of metalworkers
• Ancient χαλκεῖς were often considered to be under the protection of the god Hephaestus
• The profession was so respected that some Greek cities had streets named after their χαλκεῖς

Strong’s G5471: A craftsman or artisan who works with copper, bronze, or other metals, derived from χαλκός (copper/bronze). In ancient contexts, represents skilled metalworkers who were vital to society, creating both practical implements and sacred vessels. Notable for its precise technical meaning and cultural significance in biblical times.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: metalworking, craftsmanship, bronze age, copper, artisan, Paul, technical skills, ancient professions, biblical trades, Greek nouns​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​