ירמיהו, פרק כ״ה, פסוק כ״ג

The ancient landscape was filled with distinct ethnic groups and geographic regions, each known for its own unique characteristics. Among the various groups are the tribes of Dedan, Tema, and Buz. These nations are located in the region of southern Arabia [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Historically, these specific groups trace their lineage back to the descendants of Ishmael and Keturah [מלבי״ם].

Beyond their names, these tribes are identified by a unique descriptive trait that is understood in a few different ways. The primary approach among commentators is to view this description geographically. The root concepts relate to edges and sides [מצודת ציון], pointing to distant, isolated nations that dwell at the far corners of the known world [רש״י, רד״ק, מצודת דוד].

However, other scholars explain this description by looking at the physical practices of these tribes. One perspective suggests it refers to a specific cultural haircut, where the people clipped the edges of their hair [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Another explanation connects the idea of cutting to the practice of circumcision, noting that these remaining descendants of Ishmael and Keturah maintained the tradition of removing their foreskins [מלבי״ם].