Meaning
A male child in relation to his parents; the word can also refer to a male descendant or a person identified by a particular relationship, group, or characteristic.
Biblical Usage
Scripture uses son primarily for a male child in relation to his father or mother. The term is also frequently used for male descendants, including descendants separated from the immediate generation.
The Bible also uses son in broader relational and descriptive expressions, such as sons of Israel, sons of the prophets, sons of Belial, and sons of light. The meaning of the expression is determined by its context.
Key References
- Genesis 4:25 — Seth is born as a son to Adam and Eve.
- Genesis 5:4 — Adam’s descendants include sons and daughters.
- Genesis 21:3 — Isaac is named as Abraham’s son.
- Exodus 2:10 — Moses is identified as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter.
- Ruth 4:17 — A son is born to Ruth and Boaz.
- 1 Samuel 4:11 — Eli’s sons Hophni and Phinehas die.
- 1 Samuel 16:13 — David, son of Jesse, is anointed.
- 2 Samuel 12:24 — Solomon is born as David’s son.
- Proverbs 10:1 — A wise son makes his father glad.
- Matthew 1:1 — Jesus Christ is identified through his genealogy.
- Galatians 3:7 — Those who are of faith are described in relation to Abraham.
Related Terms
- Daughter
- Child
- Father
- Mother
- Family