Tah'penes is a figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the historical context of the United Monarchy of Israel. She is identified as an Egyptian queen, and her account is intertwined with the narrative of Hadad the Edomite, as recorded in the First Book of Kings.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to Tah'penes is found in 1 Kings 11:19-20. The Berean Standard Bible states:

"Pharaoh was so pleased with Hadad that he gave him the sister of his own wife, Queen Tahpenes, in marriage. And the sister of Tahpenes bore Hadad a son named Genubath. Tahpenes herself weaned him in Pharaoh’s palace, and Genubath lived there among the sons of Pharaoh."

Historical and Cultural Context:

Tah'penes is depicted as a member of the Egyptian royal family, indicating a significant political alliance between Egypt and Hadad, an Edomite prince. This alliance is noteworthy as it reflects the complex diplomatic relationships between Egypt and the neighboring nations during the reign of Solomon, King of Israel. The marriage of Hadad to Tah'penes' sister signifies a bond that would have political and possibly military implications, as marriages during this period often served to solidify alliances.

Role and Significance:

Tah'penes' role, while brief in the biblical narrative, is significant in understanding the broader geopolitical landscape of the time. Her presence in the account highlights the influence and reach of the Egyptian monarchy, as well as the strategic importance of marriage alliances. The fact that her sister was given in marriage to Hadad suggests that Tah'penes held a position of considerable influence within the Egyptian court.

The mention of Tah'penes weaning Genubath in Pharaoh's palace further emphasizes the integration of Hadad's family into the Egyptian royal household. This detail underscores the close ties between Hadad and the Egyptian monarchy, suggesting that Hadad was not merely a political refugee but was treated with honor and given a status akin to that of Egyptian royalty.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the account of Tah'penes and her connection to Hadad serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over the nations. Despite the political machinations and alliances formed by human rulers, the biblical narrative consistently points to the overarching divine plan. In the broader context of 1 Kings 11, the account of Hadad and his return to Edom is part of the fulfillment of God's word to Solomon regarding the division of the kingdom due to Solomon's disobedience.

Tah'penes, though a minor character, is part of the intricate tapestry of events that lead to the eventual fulfillment of God's purposes for Israel and its surrounding nations. Her account, embedded within the larger narrative of 1 Kings, illustrates the interconnectedness of the biblical world and the unfolding of divine providence through historical events.Tah'penes (2 Occurrences)

1 Kings 11:19
And Hadad found great favour in the sight of Pharaoh, so that he gave him to wife the sister of his own wife, the sister of Tahpenes the queen.
(See RSV)

1 Kings 11:20
And the sister of Tahpenes bore him Genubath his son, whom Tahpenes weaned in Pharaoh's house; and Genubath was in Pharaoh's house among the sons of Pharaoh.
(See RSV)

Tah'penes (2 Occurrences)
Tah'penes. Tahpenes, Tah'penes. Tahrea . Multi-Version Concordance
Tah'penes (2 Occurrences). 1 Kings 11:19 And Hadad found great ...
/t/tah'penes.htm - 6k

Tahpenes (2 Occurrences)

/t/tahpenes.htm - 7k

Tahrea (1 Occurrence)

/t/tahrea.htm - 6k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus