Bible Figure
Abel
male human biblical figure in Genesis 4, son of Adam and Eve
Abel was the second son of Adam and Eve, a keeper of sheep whose acceptable offering to God provoked Cain's jealousy and led to the first murder.
Biography
Genesis 4 describes Abel as a shepherd and Cain as a worker of the ground. Abel brought the firstborn and fat portions of his flock, and the Lord regarded Abel and his offering favorably. Cain became angry and, despite God's warning about sin, killed Abel in the field. God confronted Cain and said Abel's blood cried from the ground. Jesus later referred to 'righteous Abel,' and Hebrews presents Abel's offering as an act of faith and says his blood still speaks.
Biblical Significance
Abel is remembered as the first person murdered in Scripture and as a righteous worshiper whose faith is commended in the New Testament. Hebrews contrasts Abel's blood with the superior message of Jesus' blood.