Temanite
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Temanite in the Bible?
Temanite denotes an inhabitant of Teman, a prominent region within the ancient kingdom of Edom. This ethnonym is most frequently encountered in the Hebrew Bible as the descriptor for Eliphaz the Temanite, one of the three friends who engage in dialogue with Job.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing the Temanite designation anchors the narrative of Job in a specific historical and geographical reality, distinguishing the Edomite perspective from the Israelite tradition. This context illuminates the cultural tensions and theological debates presented in the text, as the wisdom attributed to Eliphaz reflects the distinct religious heritage of Edom rather than the covenantal laws of Israel.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Temanite in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Temanite clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.