Tahpenes

The name Tahpenes has its roots in ancient Egyptian, with likely derivations from the phrase tꜣ ḥmt nswt, which translates to 'wife of the king.' This etymology reflects the regal and prestigious associations of the name, tying it to a queenly status. The Late Egyptian pronunciation, approximated as /taʔ ˈħiːmə ʔənˈsiːʔ/, further underscores its linguistic heritage. In the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible), the name appears as Θεκεμιμας (Thekemimas) or Θεχεμινας (Thekheminas), showcasing its adaptation across languages and cultures. Historically, the name is tied to ancient Egypt, where the titular figure Tahpenes was a queen, adding an air of historical gravitas to its meaning.

In biblical tradition, Tahpenes holds a unique position as a queen of Egypt who played a role in the political and familial dynamics of her time. The Divine Proximity Index of 80.8/100 reflects her indirect yet noteworthy association with God's narrative in scripture. Despite not being a central figure in the biblical story of faith, her connections to key events and individuals, such as her sister’s marriage to Hadad the Edomite, highlight her significance within the broader biblical tapestry. As a queen, Tahpenes symbolizes political power and the complex interplay between nations during the time of Solomon.

Tahpenes is mentioned in the First Book of Kings (1 Kings 11:19–20), where she is described as an Egyptian queen who played a role in the life of Hadad the Edomite. When Hadad fled to Egypt as a young man, seeking refuge after the destruction of Edom by King David’s forces, he was welcomed into Pharaoh’s court. Tahpenes’ sister was given to Hadad in marriage, and their son, Genubath, was raised in the royal household under Tahpenes’ care. This familial bond not only solidified Hadad’s position in Egypt but also connected him to the royal lineage, enabling him to become a significant adversary of King Solomon later in life.