tentmaking

Tentmaking refers to a practice where individuals engage in secular employment to support themselves while also serving in a religious capacity, most commonly in Christian missionary work. The term is derived from the Apostle Paul, who was a tentmaker by trade and supported himself through this work while spreading the Christian message.

The primary purpose of tentmaking is to provide financial independence and cultural integration for missionaries. By working in a secular job, missionaries can avoid relying solely on external financial support, which can be unstable or insufficient. This also allows them to live and work in a host country without needing special visas typically granted only to religious workers, as their employment is based on their professional skills.

Tentmaking facilitates deeper engagement with the local community. By participating in the workforce, missionaries can build relationships with colleagues, customers, and others in their professional sphere, gaining a more authentic understanding of the culture and opening avenues for sharing their faith organically. It can reduce the perception of being an outsider or a financial burden.

While often associated with Christian missions, the concept of integrating secular work with a religious calling can be found in various forms across different faiths and historical periods. The modern tentmaking movement emphasizes the importance of professional skills and a strong work ethic as integral parts of vocational service.