There are two purposes to the story. The first is the illustration of man's fall with the introduction of human death. The first human death is not a natural death of age, but one brought about by violence and malice. This illustrates that man has become a fallen being.
I've also heard priests and rabbis place a great deal of emphasis on Cain's question to God, "am I my brothers keeper?" Some like to say that this sets up the idea that yes, humans are there to watch and take care of each other.
I've also heard priests and rabbis place a great deal of emphasis on Cain's question to God, "am I my brothers keeper?" Some like to say that this sets up the idea that yes, humans are there to watch and take care of each other.
