Zillah: Wife of Lamech
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Zillah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Genesis, specifically in the genealogical records of the descendants of Cain. She is recognized as one of the two wives of Lamech, a descendant of Cain, and is noted for her role in the early generations of humanity following the expulsion from the Garden of Eden.

Biblical References:

Zillah is introduced in Genesis 4:19, which states, "And Lamech took two wives, one named Adah and the other Zillah." This passage highlights the practice of polygamy in the antediluvian period, a time when humanity was still in its formative stages and societal norms were being established.

Family and Descendants:

Zillah is the mother of two children, as recorded in Genesis 4:22: "Zillah also gave birth to Tubal-cain, a forger of every implement of bronze and iron. And the sister of Tubal-cain was Naamah." Tubal-cain is noted for his skills in metallurgy, indicating the advancement of human technology and craftsmanship during this era. The mention of Naamah, although brief, suggests the presence and importance of women in the genealogical and cultural narratives of early Genesis.

Cultural and Theological Significance:

Zillah's inclusion in the biblical narrative, though limited in detail, provides insight into the early development of human society and the roles of women within it. Her marriage to Lamech, who is known for his declaration of vengeance in Genesis 4:23-24, reflects the complexities and challenges of human relationships in a world increasingly marked by sin and moral decline.

The polygamous union of Lamech with Zillah and Adah is one of the earliest recorded instances of such a practice in the Bible. This aspect of the narrative has been the subject of much theological discussion, particularly in understanding the divergence from the monogamous ideal established in Genesis 2:24, where it is stated, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh."

Historical Context:

Zillah's account is set in the context of the pre-flood world, a time characterized by rapid population growth and cultural development. The skills attributed to her son Tubal-cain suggest a period of significant technological advancement, which would have had profound implications for the social and economic structures of the time.

Legacy:

While Zillah's personal account is not extensively detailed in the biblical text, her legacy is carried on through her children, particularly Tubal-cain, whose contributions to early human industry are noted. Her mention in the genealogical record underscores the importance of family lineage and the transmission of skills and knowledge across generations.

In summary, Zillah's role as the wife of Lamech and mother of Tubal-cain places her within the broader narrative of Genesis, highlighting the complexities of early human relationships and the development of civilization in a world increasingly affected by the consequences of sin.
Nave's Topical Index
Genesis 4:19,22,23
And Lamech took to him two wives: the name of the one was Adah, and the name of the other Zillah.
Nave's Topical Index

Strong's Hebrew
6741. Tsillah -- wife of Lamech
... Word Origin from tsalal Definition wife of Lamech NASB Word Usage Zillah (3). Zillah.
Feminine of tsel; Tsillah, an antediluvian woman -- Zillah. ...
/hebrew/6741.htm - 6k
Library

Chapter iv
... may have been a governing motive in Lamech's choice ... means either "ornament" or "morning";
whereas Zillah may signify ... in inducing the man to take a second wife. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter iv.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
... "And God blessed them; and God said unto them, [that is, to the man and his wife]
Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it," &c. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm

Resources
Who was Tubal-Cain in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Zillah: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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