(3-4) I have filled him with the spirit of God... to devise cunning works. — “Every good gift and every perfect gift (intellectual power no less than others) is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights” (James 1:17). Artistic ability is a Divine gift, a very precious gift, best employed in God’s direct service, and always to be employed in subordination to His will, as an improving, elevating, and refining — not as a corrupting — influence.
In wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge. — By “wisdom” is probably meant the power to invent and originate artistic forms; by “understanding,” the ability to appreciate artistic suggestions received from others; by “knowledge,” acquaintance with the methods and processes of art. Bezaleel was to possess all these gifts.
In all manner of workmanship. — He was also to possess that wonderful dexterity of hand on which the power of artistic execution mainly depends.