Brief Overview of Ἄβελ (G6: Abel)

Ἄβελ (Abel):
The Greek word “Ἄβελ” (Abel) refers to Abel, the second son of Adam and Eve. He is most famously known for being a righteous man whose sacrifice was accepted by God, leading to his murder by his jealous brother, Cain. The name “Abel” is derived from the Hebrew “הֶבֶל” (Hevel), meaning “breath” or “vapor,” symbolizing the transient nature of life.

Detailed Overview Incorporating Other Concordances

Ἄβελ (Abel):

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• Meaning: According to Strong’s Concordance (G6), “Ἄβελ” is the Greek form of the Hebrew name “הֶבֶל” (Hevel), meaning “breath” or “vapor.” This term reflects the fleeting and fragile nature of life. Abel is known in the Bible as the second son of Adam and Eve, whose righteous offering was accepted by God, leading to his murder by his brother Cain out of jealousy (Genesis 4:2-8).

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Meaning: Thayer’s Lexicon provides an in-depth look at “Ἄβελ,” highlighting that it is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name “Hevel.” Thayer’s explains that Abel’s name symbolizes the ephemeral nature of human existence. Abel is portrayed as a just and righteous man whose sacrifice was pleasing to God. His story is significant in illustrating the themes of faith, righteousness, and the consequences of envy.

1. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words:

• Meaning: Vine’s Dictionary discusses “Ἄβελ” in the context of his role in biblical history. Abel is depicted as a figure of innocence and righteousness, whose offering was accepted by God because of his faith. Vine’s also notes the symbolism in his name, pointing to the transient nature of life and the early demonstration of faith and sacrifice that Abel represents in the biblical narrative.

1. Louw-Nida Greek-English Lexicon:

• Meaning: The Louw-Nida Lexicon categorizes “Ἄβελ” under terms related to personal names and historical figures. It defines Abel as the second son of Adam and Eve, emphasizing his righteous character and the significance of his accepted offering. The lexicon also highlights the symbolic meaning of his name, pointing to the brevity and fragility of life.

1. Moulton-Milligan Vocabulary of the Greek New Testament:

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• Meaning: Moulton-Milligan notes that “Ἄβελ” is used to refer to the biblical figure Abel, whose name means “breath” or “vapor” in Hebrew. This name underscores the temporary nature of human life. Abel’s story is crucial in the biblical tradition, demonstrating themes of faith, sacrifice, and the tragic consequences of envy and violence.

Summary:
“Ἄβελ” (Abel) is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name “הֶבֶל” (Hevel), meaning “breath” or “vapor.” This term symbolizes the fleeting nature of life. Abel, the second son of Adam and Eve, is a key biblical figure known for his righteous offering, which was accepted by God, and his subsequent murder by his jealous brother, Cain. Various concordances, including Strong’s, Thayer’s, Vine’s, Louw-Nida, and Moulton-Milligan, emphasize Abel’s significance in illustrating themes of faith, righteousness, and the consequences of envy, as well as the transient nature of human existence.