What does Zil do?

Could you please elaborate on the purpose and functionality of Zil? As a cryptocurrency enthusiast, I'm particularly interested in understanding the unique value proposition and use cases that Zil offers within the blockchain ecosystem. How does it differentiate itself from other platforms in the space, and what specific problems does it aim to solve? I'd appreciate a concise yet comprehensive explanation that highlights the key features and benefits of Zil for both developers and end-users.