### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Timnâʻ**, represented by `{{H8555}}`, is a proper name derived from a root meaning **restraint**. It appears **6 times** in **6 unique verses**. The name is used to identify at least two Edomites and appears in scripture as both **Timna** and **Timnah**, primarily functioning as a genealogical marker within the lineage of Esau.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8555}}` is associated with different individuals connected to Edom. One **Timna** is identified as the **concubine** `{{H6370}}` of **Eliphaz** `{{H464}}`, who was Esau's son. She **bare** `{{H3205}}` **Amalek** `{{H6002}}` to Eliphaz [[Genesis 36:12]]. In a separate lineage, **Timna** is named as the **sister** `{{H269}}` of **Lotan** `{{H3877}}`, a Horite ([[Genesis 36:22]], [[1 Chronicles 1:39]]). The name is also included in a list of the **sons** `{{H1121}}` of Eliphaz [[1 Chronicles 1:36]] and in the official lists of the **dukes** `{{H441}}` of **Edom** `{{H123}}` ([[Genesis 36:40]], [[1 Chronicles 1:51]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context surrounding the name Timna:
* `{{H6215}}` **ʻÊsâv** (Esau): As the progenitor of the Edomites, his genealogy is the primary context in which Timna is mentioned, establishing her connection to this nation [[Genesis 36:12]].
* `{{H6370}}` **pîylegesh** (concubine): This term defines Timna's status in relation to Eliphaz, identifying her as a concubine who bore him a son [[Genesis 36:12]].
* `{{H3877}}` **Lôwṭân** (Lotan): An Idumaean whose relation to Timna as a brother connects her to the Horite families inhabiting the land ([[Genesis 36:22]], [[1 Chronicles 1:39]]).
* `{{H441}}` **ʼallûwph** (duke): This title, meaning a chieftain or governor, is applied to **Timnah** and signifies a position of leadership among the clans of Edom [[Genesis 36:40]].
* `{{H269}}` **ʼâchôwth** (sister): This word of kinship defines Timna's relationship to Lotan, distinguishing this individual from the Timna who was Eliphaz's concubine [[Genesis 36:22]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H8555}}` is rooted in its role within biblical genealogies, particularly those concerning the nation of Edom.
* **Genealogical Specificity:** The name Timna provides a precise detail in the family lines descending from **Esau** `{{H6215}}`. These records are crucial for establishing the origins and structure of the Edomite people.
* **Multiple Identities:** The use of `{{H8555}}` for different figures—a female concubine [[Genesis 36:12]], a sister [[Genesis 36:22]], one of the "sons" of Eliphaz [[1 Chronicles 1:36]], and a male **duke** `{{H441}}` [[Genesis 36:40]]—highlights the name's presence in various Edomite and Horite family branches.
* **Progenitor of Amalek:** As the mother of **Amalek** `{{H6002}}`, the Timna who was Eliphaz's concubine is the ancestor of the Amalekites, a people group noted as adversaries of Israel [[Genesis 36:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8555}}` **Timnâʻ** is a specific proper name that marks key individuals within the genealogies of Edom. Whether identifying a concubine, a sister, or a duke, the name functions to trace the lineage and leadership structures of the descendants of Esau and the Horite inhabitants of their land. Its importance lies in the precise details it contributes to the biblical record of nations.
TRV