Question

Who was Lilith in the bible?

Answer 1

Lilith is mentioned only once in the Bible -- In Isaiah 34:14.   Some translations say "night monster" or "night creature" as a translation for "Lilith."    

Janet Howe Gaines, writing for Biblical History Daily (March 15, 2018), describes the mythological figure of Lilith as having her origins "in Babylonian demonology, where amulets and incantations were used to counter the sinister powers of this winged spirit who preyed on pregnant women and infants."  Gaines adds concerning the Bible reference:   "The Lilith demon was apparently so well known to Isaiah’s audience that no explanation of her identity was necessary. The Isaiah passage lacks specifics in describing Lilith, but it locates her in desolate places. The Bible verse thus links Lilith directly to the demon of the Gilgamesh epic who flees 'to the desert.' The wilderness traditionally symbolizes mental and physical barrenness; it is a place where creativity and life itself are easily extinguished."

Mention of Lilith by Isaiah is included in a chapter warning Israel of what will happen to nations like Edom that follow gods other than the LORD God.