Genesis 4:19 Meaning and Explanation
“And Lamech took unto him two wives: the name of the one was Adah, and the name of the other Zillah.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Lamech, descendant of Cain, takes two wives: Adah and Zillah.
The Context of Genesis 4:19
Lamech establishes a polygamous household with two wives.
What Does Genesis 4:19 Mean?
Lamech breaks with the pattern of one wife by taking two. He marries Adah and Zillah, establishing a household of wives. This departure from monogamy may reflect Lamech's cultural power or status in Cain's line, or it may signal a drift from the divine order established for human partnership. The taking of multiple wives will reappear later in Scripture with notable consequences.
The introduction of Lamech's two wives sets the stage for what follows: he will father notable descendants through them, founding technological and cultural achievements. But Lamech's character will be tested, and his words will reveal whether his power and ambition are ordered toward good or toward further violence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 4:19
What does Genesis 4:19 mean?
Lamech, descendant of Cain, takes two wives: Adah and Zillah.
What is the context of Genesis 4:19?
Lamech establishes a polygamous household with two wives.