Teman was the firstborn son of Eliphaz, who in turn was the son of Esau. He became the tribal father of one of the most important clans in Edom, and his name was used for an entire region and people in southern Edom. Teman is also known through the biblical wisdom tradition, as Eliphaz from Teman was one of Job's three friends.
The prophet Jeremiah mentions Teman's wisdom in his prophecy against Edom and asks whether wisdom has vanished from Teman—showing that the region was known for its wise men.
7Concerning Edom, this is what the LORD of hosts says: Is there no longer wisdom in Teman? Counsel has perished from the prudent; their wisdom has decayed.
20Therefore hear the plan the LORD has made against Edom, and what he has purposed against the inhabitants of Teman: The little ones of the flock will surely be dragged away; their own pasture will be appalled at them.
11This is what the LORD says: For three transgressions of Edom, and for four, I will not take it back—because he pursued his brother with the sword and stifled all compassion, his anger tearing without ceasing, his fury kept forever.