### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Tûwbal Qayin**, represented by `{{H8423}}`, refers to an antediluvian patriarch. Its base definition is "offspring of Cain; Tubal-Kajin". This name appears **2 times** within **1 unique verse** in the biblical text, identifying a significant figure in the early history of civilization.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H8423}}` is in the genealogy of Cain's descendants. In [[Genesis 4:22]], Tubalcain is identified as the son of Zillah `{{H6741}}`, who "bare" `{{H3205}}` him. His primary role is described as an "instructer" `{{H3913}}` of every "artificer" `{{H2794}}` in "brass" `{{H5178}}` and "iron" `{{H1270}}`. The verse also notes that his "sister" `{{H269}}` was Naamah `{{H5279}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for Tubal-cain's identity and work:
* `{{H3913}}` **lâṭash** (instructer): This word, meaning "to sharpen; instructer, whet," defines his specific function as a teacher and pioneer of metalworking techniques [[Genesis 4:22]].
* `{{H2794}}` **chôrêsh** (artificer): Meaning "a fabricator or mechanic," this term describes the craftsmen whom Tubal-cain taught, establishing him as a master of his trade [[Genesis 4:22]].
* `{{H1270}}` **barzel** (iron): One of the two metals associated with Tubal-cain's work. The definition is "iron (as cutting); by extension, an iron implement" [[Genesis 4:22]].
* `{{H5178}}` **nᵉchôsheth** (brass): The other metal he mastered, defined as "copper, hence, something made of that metal" [[Genesis 4:22]].
* `{{H6741}}` **Tsillâh** (Zillah): His mother, an "antediluvian woman" who "bare" him [[Genesis 4:22]].
* `{{H269}}` **ʼâchôwth** (sister): This word, meaning "a sister," is used to identify his sibling, Naamah [[Genesis 4:22]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H8423}}` is rooted in his role as a founder of technology.
* **Pioneer of Metallurgy:** Tubal-cain is presented as the progenitor of metalworking. By being an "instructer of every artificer in brass and iron," he represents a major advancement in human civilization, introducing the skills to forge tools, implements, and potentially weapons [[Genesis 4:22]].
* **Advancement in Cain's Lineage:** His work with iron `{{H1270}}` and brass `{{H5178}}` is a key development within the lineage of Cain, demonstrating the growth of specialized crafts and industries in the world before the flood.
* **Genealogical Marker:** He is specifically named alongside his mother, Zillah `{{H6741}}`, and sister, Naamah `{{H5279}}`, anchoring this technological leap within a specific family unit and historical context [[Genesis 4:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8423}}` **Tûwbal Qayin** is more than just a name in a genealogy. He is identified as the foundational figure of metallurgy in the biblical account. His brief mention in [[Genesis 4:22]] establishes him as the first instructor of those who worked with brass and iron, marking a pivotal moment in the development of human craft and industry in the antediluvian era.
TRV