Seth (شيث) in Islamic Tradition
Definition and Significance
Seth (Arabic: شيث; Heb. שֵׁת Sheth) is regarded in Islamic tradition as the third son of Adam and Eve. Considered a prophet, Seth is attributed with continuing the prophetic mission of his father, Adam. According to Islamic beliefs, God revealed fifty small portions of scripture to Seth.
Theological Importance
In Islamic thought, Seth holds an esteemed position as one of the many prophets sent by God. His prophethood bridges the early narratives of human genesis with the continuing divine guidance provided through subsequent prophets. His narratives are not deeply explored in the Qur’an but hold significance in the Hadith and other Islamic traditions.
Historical Context
In the 4th century, Egypt was home to a sect of Gnostics known as the Sethians. This group viewed Seth as a divine emanation, a concept likely influenced by Gnostic cosmology and beliefs about spiritual intermediaries. The historical presence of the Sethians may have contributed to the perception of Seth as an inspired prophet in Islamic tradition (see Neander’s “Church History,” vol. ii. p. 115).
Etymology
- Arabic: شيث (Shīs̤)
- Hebrew: שֵׁת (Sheth)
- Turkish: Şit (transliteration: Shit)
The name “Seth” in Arabic, شيث (Shīs̤), comes directly from the Hebrew שֵׁת (Sheth), maintaining its phonetic integrity across languages.
References in Islamic Texts
While Seth is not extensively mentioned in the Qur’an, Islamic traditions (Hadith) and scholarly works provide insights into his life and significance. His role is more clearly articulated within the context of moral and spiritual heritage passed down from Adam.
Books for Further Study
- “Prophets in the Qur’an: An Introduction to the Qur’an and Muslim Exegesis” by Brannon Wheeler - This provides comprehensive coverage of the prophetic figures in Islam.
- “The Lives of the Prophets” by al-Thalabi - A valuable source for understanding the Islamic narratives of various prophets, including Seth.
- “Gnostic Religion: The Message of the Alien God and the Beginnings of Christianity” by Hans Jonas - This provides context on the Sethian Gnosticism pertinent for understanding the broader religious context.
Takeaways
- Seth, known as شيث (Shīs̤) in Arabic, is the third son of Adam in Islamic tradition.
- He is revered as a prophet who continued Adam’s legacy and received divine revelations.
- The early Gnostic sect known as the Sethians influenced later theological interpretations of Seth within Islamic thought.
- Seth’s narratives are more detailed in the Hadith and other Islamic traditions rather than the Qur’an itself.
Conclusion
Seth (شيث, Shīs̤) is an essential, though underexplored, figure in Islamic tradition. His prophethood signifies the continuity of divine guidance from the very beginnings of humanity. Understanding Seth’s role provides a deeper appreciation for the Islamic view of prophetic history and the seamless link of prophetic missions throughout time.
