The term "Temanite" refers to an individual originating from Teman, a region or city associated with the descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob. Teman is often linked with Edom, a nation located to the southeast of Israel, and is considered one of its principal cities. The name "Teman" itself is derived from a Hebrew word meaning "south," indicating its geographical location relative to Israel.

Biblical References:

1. Eliphaz the Temanite: The most notable Temanite in the Bible is Eliphaz, one of the three friends of Job. Eliphaz is introduced in the Book of Job as a wise and respected figure who comes to comfort Job during his time of suffering. However, his speeches, while eloquent, are ultimately criticized by God for lacking true understanding of Job's situation. In Job 2:11 , it is written: "Now when Job’s three friends heard about all this adversity that had come upon him, each of them came from his own place—Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite. They had made an appointment together to come and sympathize with him and comfort him."

2. Wisdom of Teman: Teman was renowned for its wisdom, as suggested in the prophetic literature. In Jeremiah 49:7 , the prophet questions, "Concerning Edom, this is what the LORD of Hosts says: 'Is there no longer wisdom in Teman? Has counsel perished from the prudent? Has their wisdom decayed?'" This rhetorical question implies that Teman was once known for its wise counsel, which makes Eliphaz's role as a counselor to Job fitting within the cultural context.

3. Prophetic Judgment: The prophets often mention Teman in the context of divine judgment against Edom. In Amos 1:12 , the Lord declares, "So I will send fire upon Teman to consume the citadels of Bozrah." This pronouncement is part of a broader series of judgments against the nations surrounding Israel, emphasizing the accountability of Edom and its cities, including Teman, for their actions.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Teman is traditionally identified with a region in the northern part of Edom, possibly near the modern-day city of Ma'an in Jordan. The Edomites, descendants of Esau, were often in conflict with the Israelites, yet they shared a common ancestry through Isaac. The relationship between Israel and Edom is complex, marked by both kinship and enmity.

Cultural Significance:

The Temanites, as part of the Edomite lineage, are significant in biblical narratives for their role in the broader account of Israel's interactions with neighboring peoples. The wisdom attributed to Teman highlights the cultural exchange and the shared values of wisdom and counsel in the ancient Near East. Eliphaz's dialogues in the Book of Job reflect the philosophical and theological debates of the time, providing insight into the human struggle to understand suffering and divine justice.

In summary, the Temanites, particularly through the figure of Eliphaz, contribute to the rich tapestry of biblical history and theology, illustrating themes of wisdom, judgment, and the quest for understanding in the face of adversity.Te'manite (5 Occurrences)

Job 4:1
Then Eliphaz the Temanite answered,
(See RSV)

Job 15:1
Then Eliphaz the Temanite answered,
(See RSV)

Job 22:1
Then Eliphaz the Temanite answered,
(See RSV)

Job 42:7
It was so, that after Yahweh had spoken these words to Job, Yahweh said to Eliphaz the Temanite, "My wrath is kindled against you, and against your two friends; for you have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job has.
(See RSV)

Job 42:9
So Eliphaz the Temanite and Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite went, and did what Yahweh commanded them, and Yahweh accepted Job.
(See RSV)

Te'manite (5 Occurrences)
Te'manite. Temanite, Te'manite. Temanites . Multi-Version Concordance Te'manite
(5 Occurrences). Job 4:1 Then Eliphaz the Temanite answered, (See RSV). ...
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Temanite (8 Occurrences)

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Temanites (2 Occurrences)

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