Skill; Skilful
Culture & SocietyWhat is the meaning of Skill; Skilful in the Bible?
Skill denotes practical dexterity or understanding, while skilful describes the application of knowledge, insight, wisdom, cunning, originality, eloquence, and proper conduct in various endeavors.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing these concepts clarifies biblical passages that value practical wisdom and moral integrity, demonstrating how divine favor often manifests through human competence and righteous action rather than mere ritual observance.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Ancient Cultural Lens: Avoid applying 21st-century Western assumptions to Skill; Skilful. Examine how first-century or Near Eastern listeners understood this practice within their daily social dynamics.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Skill; Skilful in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Skill; Skilful clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Skill; Skilful." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/skill-skilful/