King James Version

What Does Genesis 4:5 Mean?

Genesis 4:5 in the King James Version says “But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell.” — study this verse from Genesis chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell.”

Genesis 4:5 · KJV

Context

3

And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD. in process: Heb. at the end of days

4

And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering: flock: Heb. sheep, or, goats

5

But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell.

6

And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen?

7

If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him. be accepted: or, have the excellency unto: or, subject unto thee

Read Genesis 4 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance f... This passage belongs to the primeval history section (Genesis 1-11) which establishes universal truths about God, humanity, sin, and divine purposes before focusing on Abraham and Israel. These chapters answer fundamental questions about human origins, the spread of wickedness, God's judgment, and the preservation of a righteous remnant.

Recurring patterns emerge: human sin escalating from individual disobedience to societal corruption, divine patience followed by judgment, gracious preservation of a remnant, and covenant promises ensuring redemptive purposes continue. The genealogies connect historical persons, demonstrate the fulfillment of divine promises (blessing and multiplication), and trace the line leading to Abraham and ultimately Christ.

Key theological themes in this section include: (1) sin's destructive progression affecting all humanity; (2) God's righteous judgment while preserving mercy; (3) human pride and autonomy opposing divine sovereignty; (4) cultural development as both blessing and potential idolatry; (5) God's sovereign plan advancing despite human rebellion. These narratives provide the necessary context for understanding God's calling of Abraham and the covenant promises through which all nations will be blessed.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The primeval history (Genesis 1-11) parallels ancient Near Eastern traditions including Sumerian King Lists (pre-flood longevity), Akkadian flood traditions (Atrahasis, Gilgamesh), and Mesopotamian city foundation myths. However, Genesis demythologizes these traditions, presenting monotheistic history rather than polytheistic mythology. The genealogies connecting Adam to Noah to Abraham provide historical framework absent in pagan myths.

Archaeological evidence confirms ancient urbanization (chapter 4's cities), agricultural development, metallurgy, and musical instruments emerging in Mesopotamia's early history. The Babel account reflects Mesopotamian ziggurat construction (stepped pyramid temples), particularly in Babylon. Linguistic diversity requiring explanation was obvious to ancient peoples, making the Babel narrative culturally relevant.

For Israel in covenant with Yahweh, these chapters explained their relationship to surrounding nations. All peoples descended from Noah, but Israel descended from Shem through Abraham—chosen for blessing all nations. The flood demonstrated God's justice and mercy: judging wickedness while preserving the righteous. This pattern would recur throughout Israel's history, assuring them that God's covenant faithfulness endures despite judgment on the wicked.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse deepen our understanding of God's character and His relationship with creation?
  2. What specific changes in thinking or behavior does this verse call us to make?
  3. In what ways does this narrative foreshadow or typify aspects of Christ's redemptive work?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 11 words
וְאֶל1 of 11
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

לְקַ֙יִן֙2 of 11

“And Cain”

H7014

kajin, the name of the first child

וְאֶל3 of 11
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

מִנְחָת֖וֹ4 of 11

“and to his offering”

H4503

a donation; euphemistically, tribute; specifically a sacrificial offering (usually bloodless and voluntary)

לֹ֣א5 of 11
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

שָׁעָ֑ה6 of 11

“he had not respect”

H8159

to gaze at or about (properly, for help); by implication, to inspect, consider, compassionate, be nonplussed (as looking around in amazement) or bewil

וַיִּ֤חַר7 of 11

“wroth”

H2734

to glow or grow warm; figuratively (usually) to blaze up, of anger, zeal, jealousy

לְקַ֙יִן֙8 of 11

“And Cain”

H7014

kajin, the name of the first child

מְאֹ֔ד9 of 11

“was very”

H3966

properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or

וַֽיִּפְּל֖וּ10 of 11

“fell”

H5307

to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)

פָּנָֽיו׃11 of 11

“and his countenance”

H6440

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Genesis. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Genesis 4:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Genesis 4:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Hebrews 11:4Job 5:2Acts 13:45Isaiah 3:10-11Luke 15:28-30Numbers 16:15

Test Your Knowledge

Genesis 4 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterGenesis Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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