March 12, 2021 omanba
THOMAS SCOTT COMMENTARY
Verses 1-2. The word, translated gotten, means acquired or possessed, and generally implies a high valuation of the acquisition. It is thus used in two remarkable texts, De 32:6; Pr 8:22. Probably, therefore, Eve concluded that this was the promised Seed; and indeed some think the words may be rendered, “I have acquired a MAN, even JEHOVAH.” If so, the subsequent events must have been a most distressing disappointment. On the other hand, the name given to Abel (vanity) seems to imply, that far inferior expectations were formed respecting him. And if Cain (Possession) was early taught to consider himself as entitled, by his birth-right, to the special favour and blessing of God, it might greatly tend to nourish in him that proud, malignant, and envious spirit, which produced the fatal consequences recorded in this chapter.
THOMAS HAWEIS COMMENTARY
Genesis Chapter 4. - Before Christ, 4004-3875
We have here, 1. The birth names, and callings of Cain and Abel, ver. 1, 2. 2. Their religion and different success in it, ver. 3, 4. and part of ver. 5. 3. Cain’s anger at God, and the reproof of him for that anger, ver. 5, 6, 7. 4. Cain’s murder of his brother and the process against him for that murder, ver. 9-16. 5. The family and posterity of Cain, ver. 17-24. 6. The birth of another son and grandson of Adam, ver. 25, 26.
Verses 1-2: We have an account in theses verses of the children of Adam: two are only mentioned.
1. Cain the eldest: his name signifies possession, and his birth was a cause of joy. A man child was gotten from the Lord, the fond mother hoped for the Lord also. Note, Parents are apt to promise themselves too much from their children, and that makes the disappointment the heavier.
2. Abel; that is, vanity. Perhaps in comparison with his brother, he was lightly esteemed, as his name imports. The partiality of parents is often sinful; and in the issue, the disregarded child proves their blessing, and the darling their plague. Note, Man in his fallen state, fitly may be called Abel, for he is altogether lighter than vanity itself.
3. Their employment. Adam brought not up his sons in idleness, but honest industry; one a shepherd, the other as a husbandman. Learn hence, (1.) The shepherd and the ploughman ought not to repine at their laborious calling; it is the most ancient, and was reckoned among the most honorable. (2.) Fathers have a right to choose a calling for their children, and it is their duty to be diligent and industrious in it.
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