Teman

Teman is a biblical name of Hebrew origin, likely derived from the word yamin, meaning "right hand" or "south". In the Hebrew Bible, a right hand often symbolizes strength and favor, while "south" reflects directional significance. According to the Old Testament, Teman was a grandson of Esau, the elder son of Isaac and Rebecca (Genesis 36:11). Esau, also called Edom, became the ancestor of the Edomites. The name Teman later designated a town or region in Edom (Jeremiah 49:20), known for its wise people (Jeremiah 49:7).

Etymology

The Hebrew noun teman means "south" (as opposed to tzafon, "north") and is related to the root י־מ־ן (y-m-n) meaning "right side" or "right hand." Thus Teman can be understood as "southerner" or "at the right hand."

Notable Bearers

In the Bible, Teman is the son of Eliphaz and grandson of Esau (Genesis 36:11). The clan of the Temanites (descendants of Teman) is also mentioned in Job 2:11, where Eliphaz the Temanite is one of Job's three friends.

Usage Today

Teman is primarily used in the context of biblical scholarship and among religious communities (Jewish, Christian) that value Old Testament names. It remains rare as a first name, but its connection to Esau and Edom gives it symbolic weight.

• Meaning: Right hand, south, southerner
• Origin: Hebrew
• Category: Biblical male name
• Scriptural References: Genesis 36:11, 1 Chronicles 1:36, Jeremiah 49:7
• Related: Esau, Edom