Comparison of Genesis 3 and 4 Essay Example

Between Genesis 3 and 4, we are shown the stories of Cain and Abel, and Adam and Eve. In this, there are many similarities and differences. 

The similarity of humans misunderstanding that God likes good, is revealed in Genesis 3 and 4.  Adam and Eve think their nakedness is shameful after they sin. But, it isn't, because God created mankind in his own image. The bodies that they’re ashamed of, are God's image, which God has called good. Cain thinks God’s satisfaction with Abel’s offering is favoritism. However, God is pleased with Abel because his character is revealed through his offering. Abel offers the fat portions of his firstborns, (which are worth a lot). Meaning, Abel relies on God and trusts in him, he acknowledges that it is all God's work.

As humans, we like to live in a lie instead of the truth. The thing that stops us from living in a lie is the truth, so we cover it up. Adam and Eve cover themselves, which covers the truth of their sin. Covering the truth allows them to live in a lie, but God saw through it. He saw their attempt to cover it, and knew of their sin. When Cain got mad and killed his brother. He tried to cover it up. When God asked where Abel was, he lied. Which was his attempt to cover the truth, so he could live in his lie, and tried to hide the truth from God. 

Through the two chapters, along with the symbolic similarities, there are also differences. Between the two stories, they both have different motives behind their sin. In chapter 3, Adam and Eve got tempted by the serpent, and ate the fruit because they wanted to be like God. But, Cain kills his brother because Abel got God's favor and he didn't, he sinned out of anger and jealousy, he didn't really get tempted. 

I conclude that in these chapters, there are similarities and differences. Similarities including humans misunderstanding God liking good, and our liking of living of lies, to the differences, namely the motives behind the two sins.