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.
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.
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.
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.
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