Enos

Enos is the form of Enosh used in some versions of the Bible, including the King James Version. Derived from the Hebrew word אֱנוֹשׁ (enósh) meaning "mortal man," Enos appears in the genealogy of Genesis as the son of Seth and grandson of Adam.

Etymology

The name Enos originates from the Hebrew root ʔ-n-š, which conveys the concept of frailty and mortality. In the Masoretic Text, the name is spelled אֱנוֹשׁ (Enoš), while the Greek Septuagint renders it Ἐνώς (Enōs). The Latin Vulgate and subsequent English Bibles such as the KJV adopted the form Enos. The name shares a linguistic link with enosh not as a separate form but as a variant transcription of the same Hebrew name.

Biblical Significance

In the Book of Genesis (4:26; 5:6-11), Enos is described as the son of Seth and the father of Kenan. The passage notably states, "Then began men to call upon the name of the Lord" (KJV) during the time of Enos. This has been interpreted by Christian tradition as marking the beginning of organized worship or public prayers. Enos lived 905 years, according to the Masoretic chronology.

Mormon Tradition

In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon), the Book of Mormon features a prophet named Enos, who is the son of Jacob (son of Lehi). The Book of Enos is a short book detailing Enos's spiritual struggle and his prayers for his people's welfare. He is also identified in Mormon genealogy–related contexts as a lineage figure spanning from Lehi to Jarom.

Historical and Cultural Usage

Enos has been used as a given name primarily in English-speaking Christian and Mormon communities. It enjoyed some usage among Protestants after the Reformation, particularly in the form repeated from the Bible. In rare cases, it also appears as a surname, though its origin there is uncertain. It remains a relatively niche name in the modern day, often associated with biblical traditionalism or Latter-day Saint heritage.

Related Names

Linguistically and genealogically, Enos belongs to the chain: Enosh → Seth → Adam. Additional variants in Greek or Latin usage include the form Enoch, though that name is a distinct entity almost uniquely preserved.

• Meaning: mortal man
• Origin: Hebrew
• Usage: English Bible, Greek Bible, Latin Bible
• Type: First name