Could someone please explain to me why the Biblical story of Cain and Abel is interpreted only as an example of the evil of (the first) murder, but is not also an example of child abuse? God accepts Abel's offering of one of the animals of his flock, but refuses Cain's offering of the vegetables he has grown. In the text of the verse there is no clear explanation of why God favors meat over a crop. Understandably Cain feels rejected, particularly with no explanation. Cain's action in murdering Abel is deplorable and morally repugnant, but it is not without provocation. The provocation, in my view, actually comes from God. To favor one person over another without adequate reason and explanation is a form of abuse; in this case child abuse since God is considered the "Father" of all mankind.
Though it is obviously important to teach the rule against murder, this story is, in my opinion, an example of the lack of sufficient detail and clarity in the Bible. There is never an excuse for murder, but causes are always important to consider. God's unexplained favoritism of Abel over Cain is confusing and clearly what caused Cain's response. If this was a contemporary story, God does not demonstrate skill as a father and therefore makes the lesson against murder in this verse less compelling.
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