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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

The second son of Adam and Eve, Abel was a shepherd who brought the firstborn of his flock as an offering to the Lord. God respected Abel's offering, which was given in faith. His brother Cain, consumed with jealousy, murdered him in the field. Abel's blood cried out from the ground, and he became the first martyr. The New Testament commends his faith.

Significance

Abel represents righteous suffering and is the first martyr. His acceptable sacrifice by faith prefigures Christ's perfect sacrifice and demonstrates that God looks at the heart.

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 is described in the Bible as son of Adam(GEN 4:2), first person murdered (GEN 4:8).

What does the name Abel mean?

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

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