Two distinct women named Adah appear in the biblical narrative. The first is a wife of Lamech, a descendant of Cain. Genesis 4:19-23 identifies her as the mother of Jabal, the ancestor of those who live in tents and raise livestock, and Jubal, the ancestor of musicians. The second Adah is mentioned in Genesis 36 and 1 Chronicles 1 as a wife of Esau and the daughter of Elon the Hittite. She is the mother of Eliphaz, one of Esau’s sons who became a chieftain of Edom.
Understanding these two figures provides insight into the complex genealogies presented in the Bible, particularly in the early chapters of Genesis. The two Adahs, though sharing a name, represent different lineages and highlight the diverse social structures and family relationships during those periods. Studying these biblical figures enriches one’s understanding of the historical and cultural context of the Old Testament and sheds light on the development of both the Israelite and Edomite nations.
