Bible Studies/Habbakuk 3:3

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Expert: - 5/15/2011


Question
QUESTION: Hi Edward,
Why is Teman mentioned n Habakkuk 3:3?
Thanks,
H.M

ANSWER: Teman refers to the territory of Sinai, where God appeared to Moses to establish a covenant.
Hope this short answer is sufficient.  If I missed something, let me know.
Best wishes, HM.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi again. Sorry I'm late. My laptop is being repaired so my access to a pc is not as easy it is usually is. Anyways, the commentary of the Oxford Annotated Bible (NRSV) says in regards to Habakkuk 3:3 "Teman, Mount Paran, sites in southern Transjordan". Is Sinai in southern Transjordan? Also in one of the versions (I think JPS), it says "God is coming" instead of "God came". If that is the accurate translation, does that mean that Habakkuk predates the pentatuech?

Answer
Whatever may be the modern boundaries, Paran is near Sinai [Num 10:11-12].
Hab 1:6 refers to the Caldeans, who come from the time of the Babylonians.
I have found some translations that read "is coming", however, I do not see a clear reference to the Pentateuch.
Best wishes.

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Edward Bode

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A scholar of Jewish and Christian scripture (biblical studies), I hold graduate degrees from three universities in Rome [Italy]: Pontifical Gregorian University, Pontifical Biblical Institute, and the University of St. Thomas. I also have a master's degree in English. My special interests are the gospels of the New Testament and the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Experience

I have taught at three universities and two colleges. My published works include one book, several articles in scholarly journals, and numerous book reviews.

I hold a doctorate in sacred theology from the University of St. Thomas in Rome, Italy; a license in sacred scripture from the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome; a license in sacred theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome.Additionally, I earned a master's degree in English from the University of Missouri in Columbia, Mo., and a bachelor of journalism from the same university.

I have been a member of the Catholic Biblical Association of America for 40 years. I am a former member of Society of Biblical Literature.I have spoken on academic topics to local, national, and international groups.

Education/Credentials
I hold graduate degrees from three universities in Rome [Italy]: Pontifical Gregorian University, Pontifical Biblical Institute, and the University of St. Thomas. I also have a master's degree in English.

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