Jemima

Jemima is one of the three daughters born to Job after the Lord restored his fortunes; she is named in Job 42:14.

At a Glance

A biblical person named only in Job 42:14.

Key Points

Description

Jemima is the first of the three daughters born to Job after the Lord restored his fortunes in Job 42:14. She is mentioned together with her sisters Keziah and Keren-happuch in the epilogue to the book of Job, where her presence forms part of the narrative’s emphasis on God’s gracious restoration. The text does not develop Jemima as a separate theological figure; she is a named biblical person whose mention contributes to the book’s concluding picture of divine blessing after affliction.

Biblical Context

Job 42 closes the book with Job’s restoration, renewed family life, and increased blessing from the Lord. Jemima appears in that restored household, marking the completeness of Job’s renewed fortunes.

Historical Context

No independent historical information about Jemima is preserved outside the biblical text. Her significance is literary and biblical rather than biographical in a historical sense.

Jewish and Ancient Context

The book of Job presents Jemima within a wisdom setting that values naming and inheritance. Her inclusion, along with that of her sisters, underscores the honor given to Job’s daughters in the final scene.

Primary Key Texts

Secondary Key Texts

Original Language Note

The name is a Hebrew proper name rendered in English as Jemima. The text itself does not explain its meaning.

Theological Significance

Jemima’s mention contributes to the book of Job’s theology of restoration: after suffering, God is able to restore, bless, and renew. Her place in the closing verses also reflects the value Scripture places on named persons within God’s covenant dealings.

Philosophical Explanation

As a named but otherwise unelaborated person, Jemima illustrates how biblical narrative can be theologically meaningful without assigning extended doctrinal teaching to every individual mentioned. Her role is contextual and literary, not conceptual.

Interpretive Cautions

Do not read more into Jemima than the text provides. Scripture gives her name, family context, and placement in the restoration scene, but no independent narrative or doctrinal teaching about her person.

Major Views

There is no major interpretive dispute about Jemima herself. Discussion usually concerns the broader meaning of Job’s daughters in the epilogue and the significance of their inheritance and honor.

Doctrinal Boundaries

Jemima should be treated as a biblical person, not as a theological doctrine or symbol. Any spiritual application must remain grounded in Job 42 and avoid speculation.

Practical Significance

Jemima’s presence in the final chapter of Job reminds readers that God’s restoration is concrete and personal. It also reinforces the dignity of named individuals, including daughters, within the biblical account.

Related Entries

See Also

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