Hadad
Hadad is a name that appears multiple times in the Bible, often associated with Edomite kings. In this context, Hadad is one of the sons of Ishmael, Abraham's son through Hagar. The name Hadad is also linked to a storm and fertility god worshiped in ancient Near Eastern cultures, particularly among the Arameans and Canaanites. This connection suggests the influence of surrounding cultures on the Ishmaelites. The mention of Hadad here highlights the spread and influence of Ishmael's descendants, who became prominent tribes in the Arabian Peninsula.

Tema
Tema is both a person and a place in biblical texts. As a son of Ishmael, Tema represents one of the tribes that settled in the Arabian desert. The region of Tema is mentioned in Job 6:19 and Isaiah 21:14, indicating its significance as a caravan stop and a center of trade. The people of Tema were known for their wisdom, as suggested in Jeremiah 25:23. This highlights the cultural and economic interactions between the Ishmaelites and other ancient civilizations.

Jetur
Jetur is another son of Ishmael, and his descendants are associated with the Itureans, a group that settled in the region of Iturea, located in the northern part of modern-day Israel and southern Lebanon. The Itureans were known for their skills in archery and were often employed as mercenaries. This connection is seen in 1 Chronicles 5:19, where the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh fought against the Hagarites, including Jetur. The mention of Jetur underscores the martial prowess and influence of Ishmael's descendants.

Naphish
Naphish is listed as one of the sons of Ishmael, and his descendants are mentioned in 1 Chronicles 5:19 as part of the Hagarite tribes. The name Naphish may be related to the Hebrew word for "refresh" or "revive," suggesting a possible role in providing resources or support in the desert environment. The inclusion of Naphish in the genealogical record emphasizes the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that Ishmael would become a great nation (Genesis 17:20).

Kedemah
Kedemah, the last son of Ishmael mentioned in this passage, is associated with the eastern regions, as the name itself means "eastward" or "ancient." This reflects the geographical spread of Ishmael's descendants toward the east, aligning with the biblical narrative of their settlement in the Arabian Peninsula. The mention of Kedemah signifies the broad territorial expansion and the establishment of distinct tribes from Ishmael, fulfilling the prophecy of Genesis 16:12 that Ishmael's descendants would live in opposition to their relatives.

1. Hadar
One of the sons of Ishmael, Abraham's son through Hagar. His name means "honor" or "splendor" in Hebrew.

2. Tema
Another son of Ishmael. The name is also associated with a region in Arabia, indicating a possible settlement or tribe that descended from him.

3. Jetur
A son of Ishmael whose descendants are believed to have formed a nomadic tribe. His name means "enclosure" or "encampment."

4. Naphish
One of Ishmael's sons, whose name means "refreshed" or "breathing." His descendants are thought to have been part of the nomadic tribes in the region.

5. Kedemah
The last son of Ishmael listed in this verse. His name means "eastward" or "ancient," possibly indicating the direction or the antiquity of his lineage.God's Faithfulness to His Promises
Despite Ishmael not being the child of promise, God remained faithful to His word to Hagar, ensuring that Ishmael's descendants became a great nation. This teaches us about God's faithfulness to His promises, even when circumstances seem contrary.

The Importance of Names and Heritage
The names of Ishmael's sons carry meanings that reflect their identity and destiny. Understanding the significance of names in the Bible can deepen our appreciation for God's intentionality in His plans.

The Role of Ishmael's Descendants in Biblical History
While often overshadowed by Isaac's lineage, Ishmael's descendants played a significant role in the history of the region. Recognizing their place in God's plan can broaden our understanding of biblical history and God's sovereignty.Verse 15. - Hadar, - "Chamber" (Gesenius); Ha'dad (1 Chronicles 1:30, LXX., Samaritan, and most MSS.); though Gesenius regards Hadar as probably the true reading in both places; identified with a tribe in Yemen (Gesenius); between Oman and Bahrein, a district renowned for its lancers (Keil) - and Tema, - "Desert" (Gesenius); Θαιμὰν (LXX.); the Θεμοί, on the Persian Gulf, or the tribe Bann Teim, in Hamasa (Knobel); a trading people (Job 6:19; Isaiah 21:14; Jeremiah 25:23) - Jetur, - "Enclosure" (Gesenius); the Itureans (Gesenius, Kalisch, Keil ) - Naphish, "Breathing" (Murphy); "Refreshment" (Gesenius); not yet identified - and Kedemah - "Eastward" (Gesenius); unknown.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hadad,
חֲדַ֣ד (ḥă·ḏaḏ)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 2301: Hadad -- a son of Ishmael

Tema,
וְתֵימָ֔א (wə·ṯê·mā)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 8485: Tema -- a son of Ishmael, also his descendants and the region settled by them

Jetur,
יְט֥וּר (yə·ṭūr)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3195: Jetur -- a son of Ishmael, also his descendants and the region where they lived

Naphish,
נָפִ֖ישׁ (nā·p̄îš)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 5305: Naphish -- a son of Ishmael

and Kedemah.
וָקֵֽדְמָה׃ (wā·qê·ḏə·māh)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 6929: Kedemah -- a son of Ishmael


Genesis 25:15 NIV
Genesis 25:15 NLT
Genesis 25:15 ESV
Genesis 25:15 NASB
Genesis 25:15 KJV

Genesis 25:15 BibleApps.com
Genesis 25:15 Biblia Paralela
Genesis 25:15 Chinese Bible
Genesis 25:15 French Bible
Genesis 25:15 Catholic Bible

OT Law: Genesis 25:15 Hadad Tema Jetur Naphish and Kedemah (Gen. Ge Gn)