Cain and Abel

Adam and Eve had two sons: Cain, who was a farmer, and Abel, who was a shepherd. One day, both brothers brought offerings to God. Abel chose the very best of his flock — the firstborn lamb. Cain brought some of his crops, but not with the same wholehearted love. God was pleased with Abel's offering but not Cain's.

Cain became furious. His face fell in anger and jealousy. God came to him gently and said, "Why are you angry? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted?" But Cain did not listen. He invited Abel out to a field and killed him. It was the first murder in human history.

When God asked Cain where Abel was, Cain said coldly, "Am I my brother's keeper?" But nothing is hidden from God. He saw everything. Cain was sent away as a wanderer. This story teaches us that jealousy is a dangerous fire. The Coptic Church reminds us to always give God our very best — our best effort, our best love — just like Abel did.