Topical Bible: Teman: Also Called Temani and Temanites: Prophecies Concerning

◄ Teman: Also Called Temani and Temanites: Prophecies Concerning ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Introduction:
Teman, often referred to as Temani or the Temanites, is a significant location and people group mentioned in the Bible. It is associated with the descendants of Esau, specifically through his grandson Teman, who was the son of Eliphaz (Genesis 36:11). Teman is frequently identified with the region of Edom, located southeast of the Dead Sea. The name "Teman" is often used interchangeably to refer to both the geographical area and its inhabitants.

Biblical References:

1. Genealogical Context:
· Teman is first mentioned in the genealogies of Esau's descendants. In Genesis 36:11, it states, "The sons of Eliphaz were Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam, and Kenaz." This establishes Teman as a prominent clan within the Edomite lineage.

2. Geographical Significance:
· Teman is noted for its wisdom and might. In Jeremiah 49:7, the prophet questions, "Is there no longer wisdom in Teman? Has counsel perished from the prudent? Has their wisdom decayed?" This rhetorical question highlights the historical reputation of Teman as a center of wisdom.

3. Prophecies and Judgments:
· The prophets often spoke of Teman in the context of divine judgment against Edom. In the book of Obadiah, a prophecy against Edom includes a specific mention of Teman: "Your warriors, O Teman, will be terrified, so that everyone in the mountains of Esau will be cut down in the slaughter" (Obadiah 1:9). This prophecy foretells the downfall of Edom's might and the fear that will grip its warriors.
· Similarly, in Amos 1:12, the Lord declares, "So I will send fire upon Teman to consume the citadels of Bozrah." This pronouncement of judgment underscores the impending destruction that would come upon Teman as part of the broader judgment against Edom.

4. Role in the Book of Job:
· Teman is also associated with one of Job's friends, Eliphaz the Temanite. In Job 2:11, it is recorded, "Now when Job’s three friends heard about all this adversity that had come upon him, each of them came from his own country—Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite." Eliphaz's role in the dialogues with Job reflects the wisdom tradition associated with Teman, although his counsel is ultimately shown to be flawed.

Cultural and Historical Context:
Teman's reputation for wisdom and strength is reflective of the broader cultural and historical context of Edom. The Edomites, descendants of Esau, were known for their fortified cities and strategic location along trade routes. The biblical prophecies concerning Teman and Edom often highlight themes of pride, judgment, and the sovereignty of God over nations.

Conclusion:
The biblical references to Teman, Temani, and the Temanites provide insight into the historical and prophetic significance of this region and its people. Through genealogies, prophecies, and narrative accounts, Teman is portrayed as a symbol of wisdom and strength, yet also as a subject of divine judgment due to the broader narrative of Edom's relationship with Israel and God.

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Jeremiah 49:7
Concerning Edom, thus said the LORD of hosts; Is wisdom no more in Teman? is counsel perished from the prudent? is their wisdom vanished?
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Ezekiel 25:13
Therefore thus said the Lord GOD; I will also stretch out my hand on Edom, and will cut off man and beast from it; and I will make it desolate from Teman; and they of Dedan shall fall by the sword.
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Amos 1:12
But I will send a fire on Teman, which shall devour the palaces of Bozrah.
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Obadiah 1:9
And your mighty men, O Teman, shall be dismayed, to the end that every one of the mount of Esau may be cut off by slaughter.
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Habakkuk 3:3
God came from Teman, and the Holy One from mount Paran. Selah. His glory covered the heavens, and the earth was full of his praise.
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