Genesis 4:19

Authorized King James Version

And Lamech took unto him two wives: the name of the one was Adah, and the name of the other Zillah.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּֽקַּֽח
took
to take (in the widest variety of applications)
#2
ל֥וֹ
H0
#3
לֶ֖מֶךְ
And Lamech
lemek, the name of two antediluvian patriarchs
#4
שְׁתֵּ֣י
unto him two
two; also (as ordinal) twofold
#5
נָשִׁ֑ים
wives
a woman
#6
וְשֵׁ֥ם
and the name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#7
הָֽאַחַת֙
of the one
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
#8
עָדָ֔ה
was Adah
adah, the name of two women
#9
וְשֵׁ֥ם
and the name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#10
הַשֵּׁנִ֖ית
of the other
properly, double, i.e., second; also adverbially, again
#11
צִלָּֽה׃
Zillah
tsillah, an antediluvian woman

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Genesis.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern narrative literature addressing origins and identity shapes this text's meaning. The development from creation to divine election established God's sovereign care over history Understanding a worldview where divine beings actively governed natural and historical processes helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Study Resources