A

Abel

Abel in the Bible — son of Adam(GEN 4:2), first person murdered (GEN 4:8). Referenced in 5 scripture passages.

Name meaning: “vanity; breath; vapor”

Profile

Gender
male
Scripture References
5 references
Known Names
1 name
Relationships
4 connections

Biography

Abel was a male figure in the early biblical narrative, identified as the son of Adam and Eve. He is uniquely noted as the first person to be murdered, an event that sets a significant precedent in Scripture. No tribal affiliation or additional notes are recorded for him.

Names & Titles

The name Abel means 'morning mist,' reflecting perhaps the fleeting nature of his life. This proper name is recorded in Genesis 4:2 and was not given directly by God.

Family

Abel was the son of Adam and Eve and the brother of Cain. His brother Cain is recorded as the one who killed him, making their relationship central to his story.

Significance

Abel holds a crucial place in the biblical account as the first martyr, whose righteous offering was accepted by God. His death at the hands of his brother Cain illustrates the tragic consequences of sin and jealousy. Abel’s faithful sacrifice prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Christ and highlights God's attention to the heart and faith of His people.

Key Events

Born to Adam and Eve(Genesis 4:2)
Brought acceptable offering to God(Genesis 4:4)
Murdered by Cain(Genesis 4:8)
His blood cries out from the ground(Genesis 4:10)

Names & Labels (1)

Abelproper name
Hebrew
הָבַל
Transliteration
hevel
Meaning
morning mist
Greek
Ἅβελ
Reference
GEN 4:2
Strong's
H1893

Family & Relationships (4)

son

Adam(GEN 4:2)
Eve(GEN 4:2)

brother

Cain(GEN 4:2)

killed by

Cain(GEN 4:8)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Abel in the Bible?

Abel was a male figure in the early biblical narrative, identified as the son of Adam and Eve. He is uniquely noted as the first person to be murdered, an event that sets a significant precedent in Scripture. No tribal affiliation or additional notes are recorded for him.

What does the name Abel mean?

The name Abel means “vanity; breath; vapor” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.

Continue Your Study