### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H8555}}` (Timnâʻ) is primarily a proper noun, referring to individuals and a geographical location. Its significance is rooted in its etymological connection to the verb `{{H4513}}` (manaʻ), which means "to restrain," "to withhold," "to hinder," or "to deny." While `{{H8555}}` itself does not carry this verbal meaning directly in its usage as a proper noun, its derivation suggests an underlying concept of "restraint" or "hindrance." This etymological link is crucial for understanding the potential subtle layers of meaning embedded within the biblical narrative, particularly concerning the characters and nations associated with this name. As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to its referents: a specific person or place within the Edomite and Horite genealogies.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H8555}}` appears in the Old Testament primarily within genealogical lists and geographical descriptions related to Edom.
1. **Timna the Concubine and Mother of Amalek:**
* [[Genesis 36:12]]: "Timna was a concubine of Eliphaz, Esau's son, and she bore Amalek to Eliphaz."
* [[1 Chronicles 1:36]]: This verse reiterates the same genealogical information, confirming Timna's role as the mother of Amalek.
This occurrence is profoundly significant. Amalek and the Amalekites became a persistent and formidable enemy of Israel throughout their history, from the wilderness wanderings ([[Exodus 17:8-16]]) to the time of Saul ([[1 Samuel 15]]). Timna's lineage, therefore, marks the origin of a people who embodied "hindrance" and "opposition" to God's chosen nation, subtly echoing the root meaning of her name.
2. **Timna the Horite Sister:**
* [[Genesis 36:22]]: "The sons of Lotan were Hori and Hemam; and Lotan's sister was Timna."
* [[1 Chronicles 1:39]]: This verse provides the parallel account.
This reference identifies Timna as a Horite, one of the indigenous inhabitants of Seir (Edomite territory) before the Edomite conquest. This detail indicates intermarriage and assimilation between the Edomites and the Horites, highlighting the complex ethnic tapestry of the region. It also suggests that the Timna who was Eliphaz's concubine may have been this very Horite woman, indicating a strategic alliance or incorporation of the native population into the Edomite ruling class.
3. **Timna as an Edomite Chief or Place:**
* [[Genesis 36:40]]: "These are the chiefs of Esau, according to their families, according to their places, by their names: chief Timna..."
This verse lists Timna as one of the chiefs of Edom, potentially referring to a prominent leader or, more likely, a district or clan named after a significant ancestral figure. The region of Timna (modern Timna Valley) in southern Israel is historically known for its copper mines, suggesting a place of strategic and economic importance in ancient times. This geographical association further solidifies the prominence of the name within the Edomite sphere.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root `{{H4513}}` (manaʻ), from which `{{H8555}}` is derived. This root's core meaning of "to restrain," "to withhold," or "to hinder" casts a conceptual shadow over the proper noun Timna.
1. **`{{H4513}}` (manaʻ):** The verb is used in various contexts, from withholding good ([[Proverbs 3:27]]) to restraining evil ([[Job 38:15]]) or preventing someone from acting ([[Numbers 20:21]]). This pervasive concept of "restraint" or "hindrance" is particularly resonant when considering the descendants of Timna.
2. **Amalekites:** As direct descendants of Timna, the Amalekites embody the concept of "hindrance" in their relentless opposition to Israel. Their attacks upon the weakest of the Israelites ([[Deuteronomy 25:17-19]]) and their consistent antagonism represent a significant obstacle to God's people.
3. **Edomites:** The broader Edomite nation, often in conflict with Israel, similarly represents a source of "restraint" or "opposition." Their refusal to allow Israel passage through their land ([[Numbers 20:14-21]]) is a prime example of this. The name Timna, associated with both Edomite and Horite lineage, ties directly into the historical narrative of these nations' interactions with Israel.
4. **Horites:** The indigenous people of Seir, whose integration with the Edomites is highlighted by Timna's Horite sisterhood, represent the earlier inhabitants of a land that became a source of conflict for Israel.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8555}}` lies less in the intrinsic meaning of the proper noun itself and more in its role within the broader biblical narrative of divine providence, human lineage, and the unfolding of God's plan amidst opposition.
1. **Divine Sovereignty in Genealogy:** The meticulous recording of genealogies, even those of nations hostile to Israel, demonstrates God's comprehensive knowledge and sovereign control over all peoples and their histories. Timna, though a figure whose lineage leads to a formidable enemy, is nevertheless part of the divinely inspired record, showing that even the origins of opposition are within God's oversight.
2. **The Seed of Opposition:** Timna's unique position as the mother of Amalek gives her a pivotal, albeit indirect, role in the history of Israel's adversaries. The existence of the Amalekites, characterized by their persistent hostility, serves as a theological reminder of the spiritual warfare and "hindrances" that God's people face in their journey of faith. This conflict ultimately highlights God's power to deliver His people and execute judgment on those who oppose His will.
3. **Symbolism of the Root:** While not explicitly stated, the etymological root "restraint" (manaʻ) subtly imbues the name Timna with a layer of symbolic meaning. The nations connected to Timna—the Edomites and especially the Amalekites—were consistent "restraints" and "hindrances" to Israel's progress and security. This underscores a biblical pattern where names can carry prophetic or descriptive weight, even when applied to individuals or groups who act contrary to God's purposes.
4. **The Unfolding of Redemptive History:** Even the detailed accounts of non-Israelite peoples, like those associated with Timna, contribute to the grand narrative of redemptive history. They provide the necessary context for understanding the challenges faced by God's people and the ultimate triumph of His covenant promises.
### Summary
`{{H8555}}` (Timnâʻ) is a Hebrew proper noun, primarily referring to an individual and a place within the Edomite and Horite genealogies. Derived from the verb `{{H4513}}` (manaʻ), meaning "to restrain" or "to withhold," the name subtly echoes themes of hindrance and opposition. Biblically, Timna is most notably identified as a concubine of Eliphaz (Esau's son) and the mother of Amalek, the progenitor of Israel's enduring enemy. She is also listed as a Horite sister, indicating the complex ethnic intermingling in Edom. Furthermore, Timna appears as an Edomite chief or a significant geographical region. The theological significance of Timna lies in her role within the detailed biblical genealogies, which highlight God's sovereign control over all nations, even those who become adversaries to His people. Her association with the Amalekites underscores the persistent theme of opposition and "restraint" that Israel faced, ultimately pointing to God's power to overcome all hindrances and fulfill His redemptive plan.
TRV