Cain and Abel #3

In this part of this discussion, we explore Gen 4:2 in which we are introduced to the two brothers, Cain and Abel, now adults.

Discussion

While the text of this verse is straight forward, I would like to highlight a few points:

a)

In a previous session, I was asked if – as suggested by some interpretations – וַתֹּסֶף (and she continued), means that Abel was Cain’s twin? This is an interesting point. However, while being twins may intensify the drama and make the jealousy between the brothers more palpable. There is nothing in the Hebrew language that suggests that one interpretation is preferred over the other. The word וַתֹּסֶף gives no indication of time frame, and either interpretation is in line with the text.

b)

We previously discussed the meanings of names: the first man, who we mistakenly call Adam, did not have a name; Eve was given by Adam the name חוה (Cha-va) as she was the mother of all people; In the previous post we also discussed the name Cain in detail. But now, for the first time, we have a person whose name is not explained. When there is an exception, the question WHY is called for.   

Let’s start by looking at the meaning of הֶבֶל (Abel, or as the Hebrew pronunciation He-vel). In the Bible the word appears with two meanings:

The common use is nothingness, meaninglessness as in Eccl 18:8

The other (and by far less common) use of the word, is wind, a movement of air, a breath, as in Is 57:13

So why did Eve call her second born הֶבֶל?

There is no explanation in the text, and we, who embrace questions more then answers, should take the opportunity to contemplate the omission.  And if your answer tomorrow is different than today’s answer than the text has achieved its goal, putting you on the path of the seekers.  

c)

When we discussed Gen 4:1 in a previous session, we highlighted the problematic interpretation of the verse because the object marker אֵת was followed by יְהוָה (God). Here, only a single verse later, we find the same sentence structure with the very same way of using אֵת.

However, as in Gen 4:2 אֵת is followed by the name הָבֶל (Abel) rather than the word יְהוָה (God),the interpretation is straight forward. Should the fact that in Gen 4:1 the word אֵת is followed by יְהוָה changes the way we should read the sentence?  For the full discussion look at this post.

Does this verse change, in any way, the way you now think about Gen 4:1? Do you think differently about the reason for the name Cain or who he really was?

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