### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Káïn**, represented by `{{G2535}}`, is of Hebrew origin and refers to **Cain**, the son of Adam. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. In the New Testament, Cain is consistently presented as a negative archetype, a symbol of a path defined by wickedness, envy, and ultimate ruin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2535}}` serves as a foundational warning against unrighteousness. He is contrasted with his brother Abel, who by faith **offered** `{{G4374}}` a **more excellent** `{{G4119}}` **sacrifice** `{{G2378}}` than **Cain** [[Hebrews 11:4]]. The reason for Cain's rejection and subsequent actions is clarified in [[1 John 3:12]], which states that **Cain** was of that **wicked one** `{{G4190}}` and **slew** `{{G4969}}` his **brother** `{{G80}}` because his own **works** `{{G2041}}` were **evil** `{{G4190}}` while his brother's were **righteous** `{{G1342}}`. Jude uses his example as a direct warning, proclaiming **woe** `{{G3759}}` on those who have **gone** `{{G4198}}` in the "way of **Cain**" [[Jude 1:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the character and actions of Cain:
* `{{G4190}}` **ponērós** (hurtful, i.e. evil): This word describes the source of Cain's actions. He is said to be "of that **wicked one**" and his works were **evil** [[1 John 3:12]], highlighting a nature that is not just mistaken, but actively malicious and calamitous.
* `{{G4969}}` **spházō** (to butcher... or... to slaughter): This graphic term is used to describe how Cain **slew** `{{G4969}}` his brother [[1 John 3:12]]. It conveys the violent and brutal nature of the act, moving beyond a simple killing to a visceral slaughter.
* `{{G2041}}` **érgon** (an act): The conflict between Cain and Abel is framed around their **works** `{{G2041}}`. The scripture specifies that Cain's deeds were **evil** `{{G4190}}`, which became the motive for murdering his brother, whose deeds were **righteous** `{{G1342}}` [[1 John 3:12]].
* `{{G4106}}` **plánē** (a straying from orthodoxy or piety): The "way of Cain" is associated with a path of **error** [[Jude 1:11]]. This links his actions to a fundamental spiritual delusion and a deviation from truth and piety.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2535}}` is significant, establishing a pattern of unrighteousness and its consequences.
* **The Way of Wicked Works:** The "way of Cain" is a path defined by **evil** `{{G4190}}` **works** `{{G2041}}` that stand in direct opposition to God's standard of righteousness ([[1 John 3:12]]; [[Jude 1:11]]). It is a prototype for religious action devoid of true faith.
* **Archetype of Envy and Murder:** Cain is the first example in scripture of how envy over spiritual matters leads to murder. He **slew** `{{G4969}}` his brother not over a material dispute, but because of the state of their respective offerings and works before God [[1 John 3:12]].
* **A Warning of Judgment:** The name Cain is invoked with a cry of "**woe**" `{{G3759}}` for those who follow his example [[Jude 1:11]]. This establishes his story as a permanent warning that such a path of **error** `{{G4106}}` and **gainsaying** `{{G485}}` leads to perishing.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2535}}` **Káïn** is far more than a historical name. He functions in scripture as the primary symbol of a person whose works are evil, whose worship is rejected, and whose jealousy results in catastrophic sin. The "way of Cain" serves as a timeless biblical warning against choosing a path of wickedness, envy, and rebellion against God, a path that ultimately leads to ruin.
TRV