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.
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).
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.
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.
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