Jubal
Perhaps the earliest listed example of an artist was Jubal, a son of Lamech. Although his father was evil, Jubal is credited as being “the father of all who play stringed instruments and pipes” (Genesis 4:21). We can be sure he not only created instruments but played them as well.
Miriam
After the rescue of the people of Israel from the slavery of the Egyptians, Miriam couldn’t help but sing. Her victory song, recorded in Exodus 15:20,21, has inspired many through the years to create their own art, including songs, poems and novels.
Belzalel
Charged with making the Ark of the Covenant, Belzalel was also instrumental in creating the sanctuary and was chosen by God to do this important creative work. Known to be a skilled and gifted artisan, Belzalel was entrusted with re-creating God’s sanctuary on earth.
Oholiab
Belzalel’s right-hand man, Oholiab was gifted with creativity and the ability to pass those skills on to others through teaching and mentoring. Exodus 31 and 35 describe the skills and talents given to these men and how they were to lead and guide others in creativity, to ultimately build God’s tabernacle.
Asaph
A leading Levitical singer and musician in the court of King David, Asaph was listed as the composer of 12 of the psalms found in the biblical book of Psalms. Some of the themes Asaph loved to reflect on were the holiness and faithfulness of God.
David
Warrior, king, giant slayer, rebel, madman, David did it all but perhaps his greatest gift to the world are the psalms attributed to him. Arguably his best known work is Psalm 23, a beautiful, poetic reflection on the peace and joy that can come from following God in the middle of chaotic and crushing times.
Sons of Korah
This mighty family of musical maestros are credited with writing 11 of the psalms including Psalm 46, a hymn that many other songs and worship lyrics were taken from, including phrases like “ever-present help in time of trouble”, “God is our refuge” and the image of mountains falling into the sea.
Heman
Named as a musician a number of times and listed alongside Asaph and Ethan, “Heman, the musician, the son of Joel, the son of Samuel” (1 Chronicles 6:33) was clearly a respected musician in the days of King David.
Kenaniah
This obscure character is know for being he “who was in charge of the singing of the choirs” (1 Chronicles 15:27). We’ve all experienced the spine-tingling power of a good choir and you can imagine that with songs composed by King David, the sons of Korah and Asaph, there would be some impressive worship happening with Kenaniah leading out.
God
The ultimate Creator, God looked on all He had created and said it was good, including humanity, who He called “very good”. God, in whose image we are created, passed those creative urges on to us, His children. When we create, we are following in His footsteps.
