### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Hebel**, represented by `{{H1893}}`, is the name of **Abel**, the son of Adam. It appears **8 times** across **5 unique verses**, exclusively within the narrative of Genesis. The name identifies the second son of Adam and Eve, a key figure in the Bible's first account of worship, jealousy, and murder.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Abel is introduced as the brother of Cain `{{H7014}}` [[Genesis 4:2]]. He is described as a **keeper** `{{H7462}}` of **sheep** `{{H6629}}`, while his brother was a tiller of the ground. The central event of his life involves an act of worship where he brought an **offering** `{{H4503}}` from the **firstlings** `{{H1062}}` of his flock [[Genesis 4:4]]. The Lord had respect for Abel's offering, which led to Cain rising up against his brother and slaying `{{H2026}}` him in a field [[Genesis 4:8]]. The story concludes with God appointing another **seed** `{{H2233}}` named Seth "instead of **Abel**" [[Genesis 4:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are central to the story of `{{H1893}}` Abel:
* `{{H7014}}` **Qayin** (Cain): As Abel's brother, **Cain** is the central antagonist in his story. His role is defined as a tiller of the **ground** `{{H127}}` and the one who **slew** `{{H2026}}` Abel [[Genesis 4:8]]. The narrative contrasts Cain's rejected offering with Abel's accepted one [[Genesis 4:5]].
* `{{H7462}}` **râʻâh** (keeper): This word defines Abel's occupation as a shepherd, one who tends a flock. The root means **to tend a flock** or pastor, and this role is directly connected to the nature of his acceptable offering, which came from his **flock** `{{H6629}}` ([[Genesis 4:2]], [[Genesis 4:4]]).
* `{{H2026}}` **hârag** (slew): This primitive root, meaning **to smite with deadly intent** or kill, marks the tragic end of Abel's life [[Genesis 4:8]]. Its use in the text establishes the first murder in scripture, a fact reiterated when Eve names Seth as a replacement for Abel, whom Cain **slew** [[Genesis 4:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1893}}` is significant, establishing several key precedents:
* **Acceptable Worship:** The account of Abel establishes a model for acceptable offerings. His sacrifice, consisting of the **firstlings** `{{H1062}}` and the **fat** `{{H2459}}` of his flock, was respected by the Lord, unlike Cain's [[Genesis 4:4]]. This introduces the theme of bringing one's best in worship.
* **The First Murder:** Abel is the first victim of murder recorded in the Bible. He was **slain** `{{H2026}}` by his own brother, Cain `{{H7014}}`, highlighting the immediate and deadly consequences of sin and jealousy entering the world [[Genesis 4:8]].
* **Continuation of the Godly Line:** Despite his death, Abel's place is not left empty. God appoints another **seed** `{{H2233}}` through Adam and Eve, who is named Seth "instead **of Abel**" [[Genesis 4:25]]. This demonstrates that God's purposes are not thwarted by human evil.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1893}}` **Hebel** represents a foundational figure in biblical history. While his name appears in only a few verses, his story as a righteous worshiper, a faithful shepherd, and the first martyr establishes critical theological themes of sacrifice, sibling rivalry, and divine justice. His life and death set the stage for the ongoing conflict between righteousness and sin, and his legacy is preserved through the lineage appointed by God to continue in his place.
TRV