My Brother’s Keeper

The story of Cain and Abel

There is no doubt that Adam and Eve’s expulsion from the Garden of Eden represents the beginning of mankind’s fall from grace. Just look at the first thing that happened after the gates of Eden are shut. Adam and Eve’s sons, Cain and Abel start a conflict, resulting in history’s first murder. Eve later gives birth to Seth as a replacement for the slain Abel. Is there more to this story full of odd names?

The Hebrew Names Deciphered

The family saga of the offspring of Adam is a foundational Biblical narrative, which we should all care about deeply. The key to understanding this story is deciphering the Hebrew names. The name of the cruel firstborn Cain (קין) comes from the verb KNH קנה “to acquire”. Abel’s (הבל) name is not explained in the Bible, but it comes from the root HBL הבל “breath”. The third son Seth (שת) comes from the root ŠIT שׁית “provide”.
 

Understand the Divine Mending with Hebrew

Cain’s name (“acquisition”) indicates his focus on materialism. Abel, however, is genuinely spiritual and his name (“breath”) indicates how unconcerned he is with material wealth. Following Abel’s tragic murder, the birth of Seth (“provide”) allows the family to be repaired by means of a divine gift. Only by learning Hebrew can you see the deep ethical lessons embedded in familiar Biblical stories. Enroll in our live online Biblical courses and discover new depths to familiar stories.