תֵּימָא (te.ma)
te.ma
Tema
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
Tema is a proper noun in Hebrew that identifies both a person and a place. It appears five times in Scripture, primarily in the books of Job, Jeremiah, and Isaiah. The name refers to Tema, the ninth son of Ishmael, who is first listed among his father’s descendants in Genesis 25:15.
The word also denotes the territory settled by this son of Ishmael. This dual usage reflects a common ancient practice where tribal leaders gave their names to their lands. The name itself carries the meaning "desert," which aligns with the arid regions associated with Ishmaelite tribes in biblical geography.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Tema appears in Scripture as both a person and a place, linking the descendants of Ishmael to the vast desert landscapes of the ancient Near East. This dual identity reminds us that faith is not confined to cities or temples; it extends into the open, arid spaces where people rely on basic provisions like water and bread. The biblical record shows Tema as part of a broader network of tribes, highlighting how God’s story weaves together diverse peoples across different regions.
In Job 6:19, caravans from Tema are mentioned alongside those of Sheba, illustrating the importance of trade routes and community connections even in harsh environments. Similarly, Isaiah 21:14 describes inhabitants of Tema offering water to thirsty fugitives, demonstrating acts of kindness that transcend tribal boundaries. These glimpses into daily life reveal a world where survival depended on mutual support and hospitality.
Reflecting on Tema invites us to consider how our own communities function in times of need. Whether facing personal challenges or societal shifts, the example of Tema encourages generosity and practical care for others. It is a reminder that small acts of provision can carry significant weight in sustaining hope and connection.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Tema3×
- and/ Tema2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- תֵּמָ֑א1×
- תֵּימָא֙1×
- תֵּימָ֔א1×
- וְ/תֵימָֽא\׃1×
- וְ/תֵימָ֔א1×
Key Verses
-
Job 6:19
The caravans of Tema looked. The companies of Sheba waited for them.
This verse highlights the role of Tema as a source of caravans, showing its significance in regional trade and travel networks.
-
Isaiah 21:14
They brought water to him who was thirsty. The inhabitants of the land of Tema met the fugitives with their bread.
Here, the inhabitants of Tema provide water to fugitives, illustrating an act of compassion that crosses social and ethnic lines.
-
Jeremiah 25:23
Dedan, Tema, Buz, and all who have the corners of their beard cut off;
Tema is listed among nations called upon for judgment, indicating its inclusion in broader prophetic messages about global accountability.