A pre-biblical version of the Cain and Abel story: A subtle condemnation of a dysfunctional social structure

Abstract

This article argues that, in its pre-biblical version (pre-J), the Cain and Abel story principally dealt with tensions unique to dry-farming families. According to pre-J, the main cause of these tensions was the relevant social structure. The social structure was problematic because it involved two important imbalances, one between the spouses and one between the children. Pre-J offers a novel solution to problems caused by these interfamilial imbalances: rather than accepting their pre-established social roles, people should develop a merit-based social structure. This is why Yahweh says that acceptance and honour are to be found in doing what is right. Focusing on a pre-J narrative in this way and situating the story within the broader context of sibling rivalry solves three puzzles relating to: Yahweh’s preference (God challenges unjust social institutions), Cain’s reactions (he is angry because his expectations were unmet and depressed because he thought that this was his failure), and Yahweh’s final forgiving of Cain (the conflict was not due to Cain’s wicked character).