### 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.
TRV