תֶּמַח

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew word Temach, represented by H8547, is the name of one of the Nethinim. Its derivation is uncertain, and it appears in scripture as either Thamah or Tamah. This name appears 2 times in 2 unique verses, exclusively within genealogical records.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In the biblical narrative, H8547 is found in identical lists cataloging the families that returned from the Babylonian exile. Temach is named as the patriarch of a family line, identified as "the children of Thamah" Ezra 2:53 and "the children of Tamah" Nehemiah 7:55. In both instances, this family is listed among the Nethinim, a group of temple servants, signifying their role within the restored community of Jerusalem.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words provide context for the lineage of Temach:

• H1121 bên: Meaning a son, this word is used to establish the family line as "the children of Tamah" Nehemiah 7:55. It functions as a builder of the family name and is foundational to biblical genealogies.
• H1302 Barqôwç: The name of another of the Nethinim, Barkos. His descendants are listed immediately before those of Temach in both census accounts, showing their shared status within the returning exiles Ezra 2:53.
• H5516 Çîyçᵉrâʼ: Meaning Sisera, this is the name of one of the Nethinim whose children are also listed alongside those of Barkos and Temach Nehemiah 7:55. The name is also associated with a Canaanitish king mentioned elsewhere Judges 4:2.

Theological Significance

While not a theological term, the inclusion of H8547 carries significance within the biblical record.

• Genealogical Preservation: The careful recording of "the children of Tamah" underscores the importance of lineage and identity in the restoration of Israel after the exile Nehemiah 7:55.
• Community Completeness: Including families of the Nethinim like Temach's in the census demonstrates that the restoration of the community involved all roles, including the temple servants.
• Covenant Faithfulness: The presence of Temach's descendants in the lists of Ezra and Nehemiah is a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving and regathering His people, down to specific families like "the children of Thamah" Ezra 2:53.

Summary

In summary, H8547 is a proper name, not an abstract concept. Its importance is derived entirely from its context. As Temach, the ancestor of a family of Nethinim, this name appears in the post-exilic census lists, highlighting its place within the restored community of Israel. Its inclusion serves as a detail confirming the meticulous nature of the biblical genealogies and the comprehensive scope of God's redemptive work for His people.