### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shêth**, represented by `{{H8352}}`, is the proper name for the third son of Adam. Its base definition is "put, i.e. substituted," reflecting his role in the biblical narrative. It appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses**, primarily in genealogical accounts establishing the line of humanity after Cain and Abel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8352}}` is introduced immediately following the death of Abel. After Cain slew his brother, Adam and his wife had another son whom she named **Seth**, stating, "For God... hath appointed me another seed instead of Abel" [[Genesis 4:25]]. This establishes his identity as a divinely appointed substitute. He is further described as being begotten in his father's "own likeness, after his image" [[Genesis 5:3]]. The chronicles of his life are documented, including the birth of his son Enos, his lifespan of 912 years, and the fact that he fathered other sons and daughters [[Genesis 5:6-8]]. A notable prophecy in Numbers mentions a future Sceptre out of Israel that will "destroy all the children of **Sheth**" [[Numbers 24:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are key to understanding the context of Seth's role:
* `{{H121}}` **ʼÂdâm** (Adam the name of the first man): As Seth's father, **Adam** is central to his story, with the text stating that **Adam** begat **Seth** in his likeness [[Genesis 5:3]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to bear young;... to beget): This verb describes the act of procreation that continues the human line. It is used for Seth's birth from his mother [[Genesis 4:25]] and for when he himself **begat** his son Enos [[Genesis 5:6]].
* `{{H2233}}` **zeraʻ** (seed;... posterity): Seth is explicitly called "another **seed**" [[Genesis 4:25]], highlighting his role in continuing the lineage that was threatened by Abel's death.
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word defines Seth's relationship to Adam and his own role as a father. Seth is born as a **son** to Adam [[Genesis 5:3]], and he in turn has a **son** named Enos [[Genesis 4:26]].
* `{{H583}}` **ʼĔnôwsh** (Enosh, a son of Seth): Seth's son, **Enos**, marks the next generation in the genealogy, establishing the continuation of his father's line ([[Genesis 4:26]], [[1 Chronicles 1:1]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8352}}` is significant for the early biblical narrative.
* **The Substituted Line:** Seth's primary significance is as the appointed replacement for the righteous Abel, ensuring the continuation of a godly lineage. He is the "another seed" God provided [[Genesis 4:25]].
* **Continuation of the Divine Image:** The specific mention that Adam "begat a son in his own likeness, after his image" [[Genesis 5:3]] connects Seth's generation to the original state of man, who was made in the likeness of God [[Genesis 5:1]].
* **The Dawn of Worship:** The birth of Seth's heir, Enos, is tied directly to a major development in humanity's relationship with God: "then began men to call upon the name of the LORD" [[Genesis 4:26]].
* **Progenitor of Humanity:** The name "Sheth" is used prophetically in Numbers to refer to a broad group of people, suggesting his line is foundational to the nations that follow [[Numbers 24:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8352}}` represents far more than just the name of an individual. Seth is a pivotal figure who embodies divine substitution and the continuation of the line of promise. His birth ensures the human story moves forward after tragedy, and his lineage becomes the one through which mankind formally begins to call upon the name of the Lord. He is the crucial link from Adam to the generations that follow.
TRV