What was Temanites?
The Temanites were a clan or group of people descended from Teman, the grandson of Esau, the brother of Jacob. The name “Teman” (תֵּימָן Teiman) in Hebrew means “south” or “south country”, and it often refers to a southern region associated with the land of Edom. The Temanites are thus a subset of the Edomites, descendants of Esau who lived in the mountainous region southeast of the land of Canaan.
In Genesis 36:11, 15, 42, Teman is identified as the son of Eliphaz and the grandson of Esau. From Teman descended a group known as the Temanites, who became a notable clan within Edom. These descendants became prominent enough that the region of Teman was named after them, indicating that they had settled and held considerable influence in the southern parts of Edom.
“The sons of Eliphaz were Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam and Kenaz.” (Genesis 36:11, NIV)
“These were Eliphaz’s sons: Teman, Omar, Zepho, Gatam and Kenaz. Esau’s son Eliphaz had a concubine named Timna, who bore him Amalek.” (Genesis 36:12)
“The chiefs among Eliphaz’s descendants: Teman, Omar, Zepho, Kenaz…” (Genesis 36:15)
Biblical References and Appearances
- Genesis 36:11, 15, 42 – Genealogical listing of Teman and the Temanites as descendants of Esau.
- Jeremiah 49:7 – “Concerning Edom: This is what the Lord Almighty says: ‘Is there no longer wisdom in Teman? Has counsel perished from the prudent? Has their wisdom decayed?’”
- Obadiah 1:9 – “Your warriors, Teman, will be terrified, and everyone in Esau’s mountains will be cut down in the slaughter.”
- Job 2:11 – Eliphaz the Temanite, one of Job’s friends, is introduced.
Historical and Cultural Context
Teman became a well-known region of Edom, recognized especially for its wisdom tradition. The Edomites, especially the Temanites, were considered wise men in the ancient world. This is evident from the prophetic books (Jeremiah and Obadiah), where Teman is singled out as the center of wisdom in Edom.
In Job 2:11, Eliphaz the Temanite appears as one of Job‘s three friends. His heritage as a Temanite links him to this tradition of wisdom. However, while Eliphaz represents worldly wisdom, his counsel to Job ultimately proves flawed and is rebuked by God in Job 42:7.
The geographical region of Teman was located in the southern part of Edom, near present-day Jordan. It was known for its arid terrain, mountainous fortresses, and involvement in trade and cultural exchange.
What It Means for Today’s Christians
The Temanites remind Christians of the dangers of relying solely on human wisdom apart from divine revelation. Though they were known for wisdom, the prophets predicted their downfall (Jeremiah 49:7; Obadiah 1:9), which came as a result of pride, violence, and godlessness.
The example of Eliphaz, a Temanite, shows how sincere but misapplied counsel can wound rather than help. Christians are called to seek God‘s wisdom through His Word and Spirit, not merely the logic of men.
Furthermore, the Temanites’ connection to Esau serves as a larger illustration of how God’s purposes do not follow human lineage alone, but are based on His sovereign election and covenant. Though Esau was the elder, God chose Jacob for the promise (Romans 9:10-13). The Temanites, while related to the covenant people, remained outsiders unless they humbled themselves before God.
How the Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel
Teman and Edom as a whole often symbolize those outside the covenant of Israel, and yet God‘s plan of redemption extends beyond the Israelites. Through Christ, even descendants of Esau—those far from the covenant—can be grafted in by grace (Romans 11:17-24). Jesus breaks down the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile (Ephesians 2:14), offering salvation to all who trust in Him.
While Edom is often depicted in opposition to Israel, the gospel opens the door for reconciliation and redemption. The judgment of Teman foreshadows the coming of Christ as the righteous judge (Acts 17:31), but also as the Savior for the nations, including those formerly hostile.
Broader Biblical Themes
1. Lineage and Legacy
Temanites descended from Esau, a man who sold his birthright. Their legacy is a reminder of how choices made generations earlier can shape identity and direction.
2. Wisdom and Its Limits
Teman was known for wisdom, yet Scripture contrasts earthly wisdom with the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of true wisdom (Proverbs 9:10; James 3:15-17).
3. Judgment and Redemption
The prophetic judgments against Teman point to the justice of God, but also to the universal call to repentance and the hope of redemption through Christ.
4. God’s Sovereignty Over Nations
Though Teman had a powerful place in Edom, it could not stand against the purposes of God. This reminds believers that no nation or people group is beyond God‘s authority and judgment.
Reflection Questions
- Why do you think the Bible includes genealogical records like the one in Genesis 36?
- What does the story of Teman and the Temanites teach us about the difference between worldly wisdom and godly wisdom?
- How do the prophetic warnings to Teman reflect God’s justice and mercy?
- In what ways does Eliphaz the Temanite help us evaluate the kind of advice we give or receive?
- How can the story of a people outside the covenant remind us of the inclusivity of the gospel message?
- What practical steps can you take to seek wisdom from God rather than human sources?
The Temanites, though often overlooked, form a significant part of the biblical narrative concerning God‘s justice, wisdom, and redemptive plan. Their legacy points to both the perils of prideful self-reliance and the promise of grace available through Jesus Christ.