Hemam
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Hemam is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob, in the Old Testament. He is listed among the chiefs of Edom, a region and people descended from Esau, who is also known as Edom. The name "Hemam" appears in the context of the Edomite chiefs, indicating his role as a leader or chieftain within the Edomite community.

Biblical References:

Hemam is mentioned in the Book of Genesis, specifically in the genealogical records that outline the descendants of Esau. The relevant passage is found in Genesis 36, which details the lineage and the chiefs of Edom. In Genesis 36:22, the Berean Standard Bible states:

"These are the sons of Seir the Horite, the inhabitants of the land: Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah, Dishon, Ezer, and Dishan. These are the chiefs of the Horites, the sons of Seir, in the land of Edom."

While Hemam is not directly mentioned in this verse, he is identified in the parallel genealogical account in 1 Chronicles 1:39, which provides additional clarity on the descendants of Seir the Horite:

"The sons of Lotan: Hori and Homam. Timna was Lotan’s sister."

In this passage, "Homam" is considered a variant of the name "Hemam," as seen in some translations and textual traditions. This highlights the common practice of slight variations in names across different biblical manuscripts and translations.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The Edomites, descendants of Esau, played a significant role in the history of the Israelites. The relationship between the Israelites and the Edomites was complex, often marked by conflict and tension, as well as periods of coexistence. The genealogies of Edom, including the mention of figures like Hemam, serve to establish the historical and familial connections between these two related peoples.

The chiefs of Edom, such as Hemam, were leaders of their respective clans or tribes. Their mention in the biblical text underscores the organized social structure of the Edomites and their significance in the broader narrative of the Old Testament. The genealogical records serve not only as historical documentation but also as a means of understanding the fulfillment of God's promises and the unfolding of His divine plan through the generations.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Edomite genealogies in the Bible reflects the comprehensive nature of God's covenantal dealings with humanity. Although the Edomites were not part of the chosen line of Israel, their presence in the biblical narrative demonstrates God's sovereignty over all nations and peoples. The genealogies remind readers of the interconnectedness of the human family and the unfolding of God's redemptive purposes throughout history.

In summary, Hemam, as a chief of Edom, represents a link in the chain of Esau's descendants, contributing to the rich tapestry of biblical history and the complex relationships between the nations descended from Abraham.
Smith's Bible Dictionary
Hemam

(exterminating). Hori and Hemam were sons of Lotan, the eldest son of Seir. (Genesis 36:22)

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
HEMAM

he'-mam (Genesis 36:22 the King James Version and the English Revised Version).

See HEMAN; HOMAM.

Strong's Hebrew
1967. Hemam -- Hemam
... 1966, 1967. Hemam. 1968 . Hemam. Transliteration: Hemam Phonetic Spelling:
(hay-mawm') Short Definition: Hemam. Word Origin a form of Homam, qv. Hemam ...
/hebrew/1967.htm - 5k

1950. Homam -- a Horite
... 1949, 1950. Homam. 1951 . a Horite. Transliteration: Homam Phonetic Spelling:
(ho-mawm') Short Definition: Hemam. Word Origin from ...
/hebrew/1950.htm - 6k

Library

Chapter xxxvi
... These are the chiefs of the Horites, the sons of Seir, in the land of Edom. And
the children of Lotan were Hori and Hemam; and the sister of Lotan was Timna. ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xxxvi.htm

Thesaurus
Hemam (1 Occurrence)
...HEMAM. he'-mam (Genesis 36:22 the King James Version and the English Revised Version).
See HEMAN; HOMAM. Multi-Version Concordance Hemam (1 Occurrence). ...
/h/hemam.htm - 6k

Hem (14 Occurrences)

/h/hem.htm - 12k

Anah (10 Occurrences)
... Ball (Sacred Books of the Old Testament, Genesis, critical note 93) suggests that
it is a corruption of we-hemam (compare Genesis 36:22) in an earlier verse. ...
/a/anah.htm - 13k

Heman (17 Occurrences)

/h/heman.htm - 14k

Resources
Bible ConcordanceBible DictionaryBible EncyclopediaTopical BibleBible Thesuarus
Concordance
Hemam (1 Occurrence)

Genesis 36:22
And the children of Lotan were Hori and Hemam; and Lotan's sister was Timna.
(KJV JPS BBE DBY NAS)

Subtopics

Hemam

Hemam: A Son of Lotan

Hemam: Called Homam

Related Terms

Hem (14 Occurrences)

Anah (10 Occurrences)

Heman (17 Occurrences)

Hem of Garment
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