Bible Dictionary
Seth
Seth was the third son of Adam and Eve, given in place of Abel after Cain killed him. Seth became the father of Enosh and continued the family line associated with faith in God.
Definition
Seth was the third son of Adam and Eve and the father of Enosh. His name expresses the idea of an appointed substitute or compensation, because Eve received him in place of Abel, whom Cain had killed.
Biblical Usage
Seth’s birth is presented as God’s appointment of another seed in place of Abel. Adam transmitted to Seth and his descendants the promise of mercy, and faith in that promise became the distinguishing mark of God’s children.
Historical Background
Seth appears in the early genealogical record of Genesis and in the genealogy of 1 Chronicles. His family line is associated in the supplied material with the continuation of faith in God.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Appointed; a substitute, the third son of Adam and Eve (Gen. 4:25; 5:3). His mother gave him this name, “for God,” said she, “hath appointed me [i.e., compensated me with] another seed instead of Abel, whom Cain slew.”
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(compensation), (Genesis 4:25; 6:3; 1 Chronicles 1:1) the third son of Adam, and father of Enos. (B.C. 3870.) Adam handed down to Seth and his descendants the promise of mercy, faith in which became the distinction of God’s children. (Genesis 4:26)