“And Lamech took unto him two wives: the name of the one was Adah, and the name of the other Zillah.”
Genesis 4:19 introduces us to Lamech, a descendant of Cain: This verse highlights a significant development in human history—the introduction of polygamy. Lamech’s decision to take two wives, Adah and Zillah, marks a departure from the monogamous pattern established in the earlier chapters of Genesis.
After the fall of Adam and Eve, sin entered the world, and its effects became more pronounced with each passing generation. Cain, the firstborn son of Adam and Eve, had already committed the heinous act of killing his brother Abel. Lamech is a descendant of Cain, and his actions illustrate the increasing corruption and moral decline within humanity.
Historical context:
To understand the significance of this verse, we need to consider the historical context. After the fall of Adam and Eve, sin entered the world, and its effects became more pronounced with each passing generation.
Introduction of polygamy:
Lamech’s decision to take two wives—Adah and Zillah—represents the first mention of polygamy in the Bible. It is important to note that this practice was not part of God’s original plan for marriage. In Genesis 2:24, we see God’s intention for marriage: “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” This verse describes a monogamous relationship—a lifelong commitment between one man and one woman.
Consequences of polygamy:
While Genesis 4:19 merely states the fact that Lameh took two wives, later biblical accounts reveal the negative consequences of polygamy. In Genesis and subsequent books, we see numerous examples of tension, rivalry, and conflict within polygamous households.
Overall lesson:
Genesis 4:19 serves as a reminder of the moral decline that occurred in the early generations after the fall. It highlights the deviation from God’s original plan for marriage and the introduction of polygamy, which ultimately led to various relational challenges.
