Overview
The lecture explores the myth of Lilith, tracing her origins from Mesopotamian and Jewish sources to her evolving roles in literature, mysticism, folklore, and modern feminist interpretations.
Origins and Evolution
- Lilith originates in Sumerian and Babylonian demonology as Lilitu, a wind and night demon.
- She appears in only one clear biblical reference (Isaiah 34:14), associated with desolation and night creatures.
- Early Jewish texts describe her as a female demon with long hair, wings, and a threat to newborns and women in childbirth.
- In ancient Babylonian religion, Lilitu and her male counterpart Ardat-Lili seduced humans in their sleep.
Lilith in Jewish Tradition
- The Talmud and Midrash reference Lilith as Adam's first wife, created as his equal, who left Adam after a dispute over equality.
- After separating from Adam, Lilith becomes the mother of demons, giving birth to hundreds daily.
- God punishes her by causing 100 of her children to die each day; she retaliates by harming newborns.
- Protective amulets with the names of three angels (Senoy, Sansenoy, and Semangelof) were traditionally used to ward off Lilith.
Lilith in Mysticism and Folklore
- Kabbalistic texts portray Lilith as the consort of Samael (chief demon) and as the queen of demons.
- She embodies two main roles: seducer of men and killer of infants.
- Lilith is associated with the demonic realm in contrast to the Shekhinah (Divine Presence).
- Amulets and incantation bowls featuring her image and names were used widely for protection.
Modern Interpretations and Feminism
- Since the 1970s, Lilith has become a symbol of female independence and resistance against patriarchal control.
- Feminist literature reinterprets Lilith as a figure demanding equality and autonomy.
- Lilith has inspired magazines, art, music festivals (Lilith Fair), and new religious rituals focused on women's empowerment.
Lilith in Popular Culture
- Lilith's myth appears in various literary, artistic, and modern cultural works, often embodying themes of disobedience and female agency.
- She is referenced as Adam's first wife and a powerful but dangerous feminine figure.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Lilith — Mythic female demon in Jewish lore, said to harm infants and seduce men.
- Lilitu — Babylonian night demon, precursor to Lilith.
- Amulet — An object inscribed with magical names, used to protect against Lilith.
- Kabbalah — Jewish mystical tradition with complex depictions of Lilith.
- Samael — Chief demon, consort of Lilith in kabbalistic myth.
- Midrash — Rabbinic biblical commentary; source of Lilith legends.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review key ancient and medieval sources (e.g., Alphabet of Ben Sira, Talmud, Zohar) for direct references to Lilith.
- Prepare discussion points on how Lilith’s image has shifted from demon to feminist icon.