Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Hashem accept Hevel's offering but not Kayin's?
A: According to Rashi (Genesis 4:3-4), Hevel brought the best of his flock (the firstborn and the choicest fats), showing sincerity and generosity, while Kayin brought an inferior offering from his crops. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 22:5) explains that Hevel's heart was fully devoted to Hashem, making his offering acceptable.
Q: What is the significance of Hevel bringing the 'firstlings' of his flock?
A: Bringing the firstborn (בכורות) demonstrates giving the best to Hashem first, a principle later codified in Jewish law (Rambam, Hilchot Bikkurim). The Talmud (Kiddushin 31b) teaches that honoring Hashem with the first and best reflects proper priorities in serving G-d.
Q: What does 'the fat parts' (חלביהן) represent in Hevel's offering?
A: The fats (חלב) were considered the choicest parts of the animal, as Rashi notes. Offering them showed Hevel's desire to give the most valuable portions to Hashem. This concept later became part of the Temple service (Vayikra 3:16), where fats were dedicated to Hashem.
Q: How does this verse teach us about proper ways to serve Hashem?
A: The verse teaches that Hashem values the quality of our service, not just the act itself. As the Ramban explains, Hevel's offering was accepted because it came with proper intent (kavanah) and generosity. This sets a model for mitzvah observance - doing them with sincerity and giving our best.
Q: Why does the Torah mention that Hashem 'had respect' to Hevel and his offering?
A: The Talmud (Berachot 6b) teaches that Hashem responds to our actions based on our intentions. The phrase 'had respect' (וישע) shows Divine approval when service comes from a sincere heart. The Sforno adds that this teaches that proper offerings (and by extension, mitzvot) must combine both good deeds and pure intentions.
The Offering of Hevel
The verse describes Hevel (Abel) bringing an offering from the firstborn of his flock and their choicest fats, which found favor in Hashem's eyes. This contrasts with Kayin's (Cain's) offering, which was not accepted. The difference between their offerings holds deep significance in Jewish thought.
Quality of the Offering
Rashi (Bereshit 4:4) explains that Hevel brought "מִבְּכֹרוֹת צֹאנוֹ וּמֵחֶלְבֵהֶן" ("from the firstlings of his flock and their fats")—the finest and most select portions. This demonstrates his wholehearted dedication to Hashem, giving the very best of what he owned. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 22:5) elaborates that Hevel chose unblemished, superior animals, whereas Kayin brought inferior produce.
Intentions Matter
The Rambam (Hilchot Issurei Mizbeach 7:11) teaches that offerings must be given with proper kavanah (intention). Hevel's offering was accepted not merely because it was an animal sacrifice (as opposed to Kayin's plant offering), but because his heart was fully devoted. The Talmud (Menachot 110a) states that whether one brings much or little, what matters is that one directs their heart toward Heaven.
The Significance of "Firstlings"
The fact that Hevel offered "בְּכֹרוֹת" (firstborn animals) is significant. The Kli Yakar (Bereshit 4:4) notes that giving the firstborn reflects acknowledgment that everything belongs to Hashem. This aligns with the later mitzvah of sanctifying the firstborn (Shemot 13:2), teaching that one must prioritize holiness in all aspects of life.
Why the Fats Were Special
The "חֶלְבֵהֶן" (fats) were considered the richest and most desirable parts of the animal, often reserved for sacrifices (Vayikra 3:16). The Sforno (Bereshit 4:4) explains that Hevel’s choice to offer the fats demonstrated his willingness to give up what was most precious to him, embodying the principle of "הַקָּדוֹשׁ בָּרוּךְ הוּא בּוֹרֵא מִן הַמֻּבְחָר" ("The Holy One, blessed be He, creates from the choicest").
Divine Favor
The phrase "וַיִּשַׁע יְהוָה אֶל־הֶבֶל וְאֶל־מִנְחָתוֹ" ("Hashem turned to Hevel and his offering") indicates that both the giver and the gift were pleasing. The Malbim (Bereshit 4:4) emphasizes that Hashem first looked favorably upon Hevel himself—his righteousness and sincerity—before accepting his offering. This teaches that mitzvot must be performed with pure intentions to be truly meritorious.