Cunning
The Positive Meaning of Cunning in Scripture
In modern English, 'cunning' typically implies slyness or deceit, but its biblical usage is almost exclusively positive. It translates Hebrew words denoting skill, wisdom, intelligence, and thoughtful design. This concept is central to understanding how God endows individuals with abilities for practical work, leadership, and spiritual insight. The term highlights a God-given capacity for excellence, whether in crafting the tabernacle's furnishings or in administering justice.
Cunning as Skillful Craftsmanship
The most frequent use of 'cunning' in the King James Version relates to divinely inspired artistry and construction. When God commanded Moses to build the tabernacle, He specifically called for 'cunning work' (Exodus 26:1, 31; 28:6, 15 KJV). This referred to the intricate, skillful weaving of fabrics and the detailed craftsmanship in gold, silver, and wood. God filled Bezaleel and Aholiab 'with wisdom of heart, to work all manner of work' (Exodus 31:1-6 KJV), translating the Hebrew for 'skill' as 'cunning.' This skill was not merely human talent but Spirit-endowed ability for sacred purposes, creating beauty and order for worship.
Cunning as Wisdom and Intelligence
Beyond manual skill, 'cunning' described intellectual and administrative wisdom. The 'cunning' man in Isaiah 3:3 (KJV) was the skilled counselor or expert, a pillar of societal stability. Young men chosen to serve in King Nebuchadnezzar's court were selected for being 'cunning in knowledge and understanding science' (Daniel 1:4 KJV), meaning they were intellectually gifted and learned. In 1 Chronicles 25:7 (KJV), the temple musicians and their sons are described as 'cunning' (from the Hebrew bin, meaning 'understanding') in the songs of the Lord, indicating a deep, skillful mastery of sacred music.
The Shift in Translation and Meaning
Modern translations like the ESV, NIV, and NASB consistently replace 'cunning' with terms like 'skillful,' 'expert,' 'designer,' or 'wise' to avoid the modern negative connotation. For example, Exodus 31:4's 'cunning works' (KJV) becomes 'skillful works' (ESV). This translation shift clarifies the text for contemporary readers but can obscure the historical understanding of the term. The English word 'cunning' itself evolved; in the 17th century when the KJV was translated, it still carried strong positive meanings of knowledge and skill, which have since faded.
Theological Implications of Divine Skill
The biblical concept of cunning teaches that all skill and wisdom originate with God. The craftsmanship for the tabernacle was Spirit-given (Exodus 31:3-5). Practical intelligence and artistic ability are divine gifts to be used in God's service, sanctifying everyday work. This frames human creativity and problem-solving as reflections of God's own creative nature and intelligence. It also establishes a model for excellence—whether in leadership, art, or learning—that is dedicated to God's glory rather than personal ambition.
Cunning in the Broader Biblical Narrative
While the specific term 'cunning' is not used in a negative sense in the KJV, the Bible does address deceit and craftiness, often using different words. The serpent in Eden is described as 'more subtil' (Genesis 3:1 KJV), not 'cunning.' This distinction is important. The positive 'cunning' represents the ordered, skillful wisdom God intends for humanity to steward creation and build community. Its application in building the tabernacle—a microcosm of a restored creation—shows how God redeems and employs human skill for His redemptive purposes.
Biblical Context
The term 'cunning' appears exclusively in the Old Testament of the King James Version, primarily in Exodus (chapters 26, 28, 31, 35, 36, 38, 39) describing the artisans and materials for the tabernacle. It also appears in historical books (1 Kings 7:14; 1 Chronicles 25:7; 2 Chronicles 2:7, 13-14), the prophets (Isaiah 3:3), and Daniel (1:4). It plays a key role in narratives about construction, governance, and education, denoting individuals specially equipped by God or recognized for their exceptional skill and wisdom.
Theological Significance
The biblical concept of cunning teaches that God is the source of all human skill, wisdom, and artistic ability. It sanctifies practical work and intellectual pursuit, showing that God equips people for specific tasks within His redemptive plan. This challenges a sacred-secular divide, affirming that skillful craftsmanship in building the tabernacle was as spiritually significant as prophecy or priesthood. It reflects the doctrine of common grace—God bestowing abilities on people—and highlights how these gifts are to be used for His glory and the community's good.
Historical Background
In the ancient Near East, skilled craftsmanship was highly valued and often associated with temple construction and royal patronage. Archaeological finds from Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Canaan show sophisticated techniques in weaving, metalwork, and woodworking similar to those described in Exodus. The term's evolution in English mirrors a broader historical shift; in Middle English, 'cunning' (from Old English cunnan, 'to know') meant knowledge or learning. By the early 1600s, it still strongly conveyed skill and expertise, which explains its positive use in the KJV. The negative sense of slyness became dominant in later centuries.