shadow, shade
Zillah is a female name of Hebrew origin, derived from the Hebrew word צִלָּה (tzillah), meaning shadow or shade. It shares its root with tzel, the common Hebrew word for shadow, which carries connotations of shelter, protection, and cool relief from the sun — all deeply valued in the arid landscapes of the ancient Near East. Zillah appears in the Book of Genesis as one of the earliest female names recorded in the Bible, wife of Lamech and mother of Tubal-cain and Naamah. This makes it one of the oldest known personal names in the Hebrew scriptures. The name fell largely out of use after the biblical period but was revived in England and America during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, when Puritan families favored obscure Old Testament names as a mark of scriptural devotion. It remains rare today, carrying the quiet dignity of deep antiquity.
Zillah is a name that holds significant cultural importance across multiple cultures and traditions. In Hebrew, the origin of the name, Zillah represents 'God is my strength', reflecting the enduring power of faith. The name has been adopted in various forms, such as Zilah or Zilla, and is often associated with feminine virtues like resilience and determination. In some African cultures, Zillah symbolizes fertility and prosperity, highlighting its importance in agricultural communities. As a result, the cultural significance of Zillah lies not only in its Hebrew roots but also in its adaptability and versatility across different cultural contexts.
Zillah is a gentle and compassionate soul with a strong sense of determination. Her name means 'God is my strength,' which reflects her unwavering resilience in the face of adversity. As a female, Zillah exudes warmth and nurturing qualities, always putting others before herself. She has an innate ability to connect with people from all walks of life, fostering deep and meaningful relationships. With her kind heart and empathetic nature, Zillah is well-equipped to handle challenging situations and find creative solutions. Her unique blend of strength, compassion, and determination makes her a force to be reckoned with.
In today's society, the name Zillah symbolizes empowerment and independence. This strong and resilient individual thrives in environments that challenge her growth and development. With her sharp intellect and unwavering optimism, Zillah is a true leader who inspires others to reach their full potential. Her modern usage reflects her adaptability, creativity, and courage, making her an asset to any community or organization.
Zillah means shadow or shade in Hebrew. It comes from the root tzel, the everyday Hebrew word for shadow. In the ancient Near Eastern context, shade carried positive meanings of shelter, coolness, and protection — the shadow of a tree or a rock face was a welcome refuge in a harsh climate.
Zillah is a rare name today. In the US, it peaked at #739. In the UK, it peaked at #3824. It does not appear in Canadian rankings. Its rarity is part of its appeal for parents drawn to genuinely ancient names with strong biblical roots and a sound that feels both unusual and dignified.
Zillah is a bold, rare choice with extraordinary historical depth. It is one of the oldest personal names in the Hebrew Bible and carries a beautiful, unusual meaning. Parents who love uncommon names with real roots and a striking sound will find Zillah genuinely special — it is distinctive without being invented.
Zillah appears in Genesis chapter 4, where she is named as one of the two wives of Lamech, a descendant of Cain. She is the mother of Tubal-cain, described as a craftsman in bronze and iron, and of Naamah. This makes Zillah one of the earliest women named in the entire biblical text, placing her among the oldest recorded female names in human history.
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