Husham: A Temanite
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Husham is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical and historical records of the Old Testament. He is identified as a king of Edom, a region and people descended from Esau, the brother of Jacob. The account of Husham is found in the Book of Genesis and the First Book of Chronicles, where he is listed among the early rulers of Edom.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 36:31-34 : "These are the kings who reigned in the land of Edom before any king reigned over the Israelites: Bela son of Beor reigned in Edom, and the name of his city was Dinhabah. When Bela died, Jobab son of Zerah from Bozrah reigned in his place. When Jobab died, Husham from the land of the Temanites reigned in his place."

2. 1 Chronicles 1:43-45 : "These were the kings who reigned in the land of Edom before any king reigned over the Israelites: Bela son of Beor, whose city was named Dinhabah. When Bela died, Jobab son of Zerah from Bozrah reigned in his place. When Jobab died, Husham from the land of the Temanites reigned in his place."

Historical and Cultural Context:

Husham's reign is part of the early history of Edom, a nation closely related to Israel through their common ancestor, Isaac. The Edomites were descendants of Esau, and their kingship is noted to have existed before the establishment of the monarchy in Israel. This detail underscores the antiquity and established nature of Edomite governance.

The mention of Husham as a Temanite indicates his association with Teman, a region or clan within Edom. Teman is often referenced in the Bible as a significant part of Edom, known for its wise men (Jeremiah 49:7) and its warriors (Amos 1:12). The Temanites were likely a prominent group within Edom, contributing to the leadership and cultural identity of the nation.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the account of Husham and the Edomite kings serves to highlight the broader narrative of God's sovereignty over all nations. The inclusion of Edomite kings in the biblical record, despite their status as adversaries of Israel, reflects the comprehensive scope of God's historical and redemptive plan. It also illustrates the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that he would be the father of many nations (Genesis 17:4).

Husham's reign, like those of the other Edomite kings, is presented without extensive detail, focusing instead on the succession of leadership. This brevity emphasizes the transient nature of earthly power and the enduring nature of God's covenant with Israel.

Conclusion:

Husham's role as a king of Edom, though briefly mentioned, contributes to the understanding of the complex relationships between Israel and its neighboring nations. His identification as a Temanite provides insight into the internal structure and regional affiliations within Edom. The biblical record of Husham and the Edomite kings serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the ancient Near Eastern world and the unfolding of divine purposes through history.
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Genesis 36:34,35
And Jobab died, and Husham of the land of Temani reigned in his stead.
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1 Chronicles 1:45,46
And when Jobab was dead, Husham of the land of the Temanites reigned in his stead.
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