In the seventh generation from Adam, Lamech, a descendant of Cain, married two wives. His first wife was Adah. The second wife was Zillah. This is the first recorded example of polygamy.

Way·yiq·qaḥ, the word used for married in this example, means to “take for himself”. Apparently, Lamech thought that while one wife was good enough for everyone else, he needed two.

The name Adah means “ornament” or “adornment”. Adah had two sons. Jabal, the first son, was a shepherd who “was the father of those who dwell in tents and have livestock.” (Genesis 4:20). His brother Jubal was a musician, “father of all those who play the harp and flute.” (v. 21)

Throughout the Bible we see the influence of parents on their children. How often do we see the names of a mother followed by the name of her child and the phrase “He did right in the sight of the Lord” or “He did evil in the sight of the Lord?”

In this case, the author of Genesis wants us to know that Adah raised two worldly successful sons. One was prosperous and powerful. The other was musically talented, excelling in the arts.

These boys were in the eighth generation of Cain. Their father was the first recorded polygamist, a murderer, and a poet. Their mother was known for her beauty. In their world, they were recognized as notable contributors to society. But at what price?

As mothers how much time do we spend preparing our children for worldly success? We invest in art and music lessons and sign them up for sports at a young age. We push them to excel academically. We encourage them to pursue careers that will provide for them financially.

Those are all fine pursuits. But what about their spiritual upbringing? Are you equally diligent about preparing them for eternal life, when the things of this world will fade away? I challenge you to place as a top priority raising children who will honor and obey the Lord with all their heart. What better legacy can you provide?

Adah in the Bible: Genesis 4:19-24