Bible Dictionary
TENT-MAKER
A tent-maker was a craftsman who made tents, likely from the durable goat-hair cloth associated with Cilicia. Paul worked at this trade with Aquila and Priscilla while preaching the gospel.
Definition
A tent-maker was a craftsman who made tents. Paul worked at this trade with Aquila and Priscilla, and the work was associated with the cloth produced from the hair of goats.
Biblical Usage
Paul is described as dwelling and working with Aquila and Priscilla at tent-making. The reference shows him practicing a trade while engaged in his ministry and is consistent with the mention of his labor for his own support.
Historical Background
Paul’s native province, Cilicia, was noted for goat-hair cloth exported under the name cilicium. This durable material was used extensively in making tents.
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>tent'-mak-er (~skenopoios): Mentioned only once (Ac 18:3). Paul's native province of Cilicia was noted for its goats' hair cloth which was exported under the name of cilicium and was used largely for tentmaking. We are told in the passage mentioned that Paul dwelt with Aquila and Priscilla, and worked with them at tent-making (compare Ac 20:34).</p><p>See also CRAFTS, II, 18.</p>