Lilith - Ancient and Medieval References
An extensive listing of texts in which the mythical figure of Lilith may appear (some are contested), including, often, translations and discussions of the sources for this legend of a femme fatale or monster rooted in ancient Hebrew stories.
Alphabet of Ben Sira (circa 800 CE)
Discussion of this text, the first known to associate Lilith as the first wife of Adam, and a translation of the story.
Discussion of this text, the first known to associate Lilith as the first wife of Adam, and a translation of the story.
Book of Raziel (circa 1100 CE)
Translation of a passage about "primitive Eve" and some discussion of the likelihood that this is a reference to the figure of Lilith.
Translation of a passage about "primitive Eve" and some discussion of the likelihood that this is a reference to the figure of Lilith.
Direct or Possible Biblical References
Does the Bible mention Lilith? A copy of a verse from Isaiah plus discussion.
Does the Bible mention Lilith? A copy of a verse from Isaiah plus discussion.
Direct Talmudic References
Lilith in the Talmud -- documenting the various references.
Lilith in the Talmud -- documenting the various references.
Gilgamesh and the Huluppu-Tree (2000 BCE)
A discussion and translation of the first known literary reference to Lilith.
A discussion and translation of the first known literary reference to Lilith.
Hebrew Amuletic Tradition (circa 900-1800 CE)
A discussion of the amulets associated with Lilith, protective charms which were unofficially part of Hebrew and Jewish tradition. Translations of some of the invocations are included.
A discussion of the amulets associated with Lilith, protective charms which were unofficially part of Hebrew and Jewish tradition. Translations of some of the invocations are included.
Isaiah 34:14 (circa 900 BCE)
A brief discussion of the Hebrew biblical text often believed is a reference to Lilith, and some alternate translations.
A brief discussion of the Hebrew biblical text often believed is a reference to Lilith, and some alternate translations.
Lilith Relief: Sumerian Terra-Cotta Relief ca. 2000 BCE
A brief description of a terra-cotta figure associated with Lilith.
A brief description of a terra-cotta figure associated with Lilith.
Nippur Bowls - Incantation Bowls (circa 600 CE)
Bowls containing references to Lilith, probably from a Jewish colony in Nippur, Babylonia, include an incantation against "all you demons and devils and Liliths..."
Bowls containing references to Lilith, probably from a Jewish colony in Nippur, Babylonia, include an incantation against "all you demons and devils and Liliths..."
Talmud -- circa 400 CE
Documentation of the four Talmudic references to Lilith.
Documentation of the four Talmudic references to Lilith.
Testament of Solomon (circa 200 CE)
A pseudepigraphic reference to the figure of Lilith, including a translation.
A pseudepigraphic reference to the figure of Lilith, including a translation.
Zohar (circa 1200 CE)
The Zohar collection includes a number of references to Lilith, probably representing oral traditions about her. Includes a translation of several significant Lilith-oriented passages.
The Zohar collection includes a number of references to Lilith, probably representing oral traditions about her. Includes a translation of several significant Lilith-oriented passages.