Genesis 4:23 Meaning and Explanation
“And Lamech said unto his wives, Adah and Zillah, Hear my voice; ye wives of Lamech, hearken unto my speech: for I have slain a man to my wounding, and a young man to my hurt.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Lamech boasts to his wives that he has killed a man and a young man, claiming revenge for his own wounds.
The Context of Genesis 4:23
Lamech boasts of his revenge killings to his wives.
What Does Genesis 4:23 Mean?
Lamech speaks to his wives with a tone of boastful declaration. He announces that he has slain a man and a young man in retaliation for wounds inflicted on himself. His words echo the pattern established by Cain: violence begets violence, and grievance justifies further bloodshed. Lamech is proud of his revenge, calling his wives to witness and honor his deed.
Lamech's boast reveals a dangerous escalation. Whereas Cain murdered Abel in secret shame and later received judgment, Lamech publicly celebrates his killing as justified retaliation. He transforms murder into a matter of honor and pride, corrupting the very notion of justice. His speech foreshadows the deeper darkness that will necessitate the flood.
Genesis 4:23 in the Original Language
ish (אִישׁ), 'man' — here, an adult male; the killing of both man and young man suggests indiscriminate or severe retaliation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 4:23
What does Genesis 4:23 mean?
Lamech boasts to his wives that he has killed a man and a young man, claiming revenge for his own wounds.
What is the context of Genesis 4:23?
Lamech boasts of his revenge killings to his wives.