### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Têymâʼ**, represented by `{{H8485}}`, refers to **Tema**, a son of Ishmael, and the region he settled. This word, likely of foreign derivation, appears **5 times** in **5 unique verses**. It is used to identify both a specific lineage descended from Ishmael and a distinct geographical area and its people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8485}}` first appears genealogically, establishing Tema as one of the sons of Ishmael ([[Genesis 25:15]]; [[1 Chronicles 1:30]]). Beyond lineage, Tema is identified as a distinct people and land. The prophet Jeremiah includes Tema with Dedan and Buz as nations in the "utmost corners" that are subjects of prophecy [[Jeremiah 25:23]]. The inhabitants of Tema are depicted providing aid, bringing water and bread to those who were thirsty and had fled [[Isaiah 21:14]]. Job describes the "troops of Tema" as desert travelers who, along with the companies of Sheba, looked hopefully for water [[Job 6:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the identity and location of Tema:
* `{{H1719}}` **Dᵉdân** (Dedan): This name refers to a territory and its people, mentioned alongside Tema in a prophecy concerning the nations of the desert [[Jeremiah 25:23]].
* `{{H7614}}` **Shᵉbâʼ** (Sheba): A well-known people and region, whose companies are mentioned in parallel with the troops of Tema, suggesting they were both associated with caravans and desert travel [[Job 6:19]].
* `{{H734}}` **ʼôrach** (troop): This word, meaning a well-trodden road or a caravan, is used to describe the traveling bands of Tema, highlighting their connection to the trade routes of the ancient world [[Job 6:19]].
* `{{H938}}` **Bûwz** (Buz): The name of a son of Nahor and an associated people, listed with Tema and Dedan in Jeremiah's prophecy [[Jeremiah 25:23]].
### Theological Significance
The biblical significance of `{{H8485}}` is tied to its role in the broader narrative of nations surrounding Israel.
* **Genealogical Identity:** Tema is firmly established as part of the lineage of Ishmael, defining its place among the Arab tribes descended from Abraham ([[Genesis 25:15]]; [[1 Chronicles 1:30]]). This placement is significant for understanding the relationships between the various peoples of the region.
* **A People of the Desert:** The references in Job and Jeremiah place Tema squarely in the Arabian desert, associating its people with caravans and the harsh realities of that environment ([[Job 6:19]]; [[Jeremiah 25:23]]).
* **Example of Hospitality:** In a notable passage, the people of Tema are presented as performing an act of kindness, bringing water and bread to those in need [[Isaiah 21:14]]. This specific action characterizes them as a people capable of providing crucial aid to the desperate.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8485}}` is more than just a name on a genealogical list. It identifies **Tema** as a specific son of Ishmael and the desert region his descendants inhabited. While often mentioned as a distant people group in prophetic oracles, Tema is also characterized by its association with caravans and, in one instance, by its life-saving hospitality, providing a distinct identity within the biblical world.
TRV