Lamech
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Lamech in the Bible?
Lamech, a descendant of Cain, was the father of Jabel, Jubal, Tubal-cain, and Naamah, and is recorded in Genesis 4 as the first individual to practice polygamy while boasting of his violent retribution.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Lamech provides insight into the Genesis narrative's portrayal of early human civilization, illustrating the escalation of social complexity and moral ambiguity within the Cainite lineage.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Lamech reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Lamech in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Lamech clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Lamech." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/lamech/