Cain and the Inherent Evil of Man

Paper Summary:

This paper analyzes commentary from Biblical scholars to illuminate the story of Cain and Abel. The author highlights why Cain is considered such a fascinating figure. Also discussed is the Christian concept of original ain, and how this can been viewed in relation to Cain's actions. Other religious ideas, such as the concept of free-will, are also considered.

From the Paper:

"Genesis 4, also known as the story of Cain and Abel, is not just a story in the Hebrew Bible. It is a story that transcends generations and has fueled the fire of philosophers and artists alike for centuries. With the exception of the story of Adam and Eve's expulsion from the Garden of Eden, the story of Cain and Abel is arguably the most well-known story of the book of Genesis, perhaps even the entire Torah. So, why all of this fascination with the concept of Genesis 4, specifically the jealous and homicidal behavior of Cain? Even in today's civilized society, why does the heinous act of Cain killing his brother draw so much of our attention? It may be that the reason that the character of Cain enthralls us so, is because he reflects the damning qualities we see in our own culture- maybe even in ourselves. It can also be suggested that the reason Cain is so absorbing as a literary figure, despite the fact that he is mentioned very briefly in relation to other characters of the Hebrew Bible (Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, etc.), is because there is a certain ominous feeling associated with him."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Bandstra, Barry L. Reading the Old Testament. 3rd ed. Belmont, California: Thomas Learning Inc., 2004. 1-581.
• Cain, James. "Free will and the problem of evil." Cambridge University Press: Religious Studies (2004).
• Lowry, Richard. "The dark side of the soul: human nature and the problem of evil in Jewish and Christian traditions." Journal of Ecumenical Studies (1998).
• Mawson, T J. "The possibility of a free-will defense for the problem of natural evil." Cambridge University Press: Religious Studies (2004).
• The New Oxford Annotated Bible. Gen. 4:1-4:26. 3rd ed. Oxford, NY: Oxford UP, 2001.

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• Analytical Essay # 60694 : "Raising Cain: Protecting the Emotional Life of Boys"

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