Cain and Abel: Reimaging Stories of Violence

Abstract

This thesis uses a close reading of the Cain and Abel narrative to offer an interpretation grounded in feminist theology, which imagines a world with less violence. It draws on sources from the social sciences, peace and justice studies as well as theology and biblical studies. The cycle of violence and concepts of restorative and punitive justice are examined as they relate both to the Cain and Abel narrative and current issues such as war crimes, the conflict in Palestine/Israel, capital punishment and internment. This thesis also examines how the Cain and Abel narrative speaks to the current environmental crisis using an understanding of the earth as God’s body. The Cain and Abel narrative continues to provide a context for reflecting on violence and responses to violence. The Cain and Abel narrative, not only describes an early story of violence, it offers a model for breaking the cycle of violence and creates the possibilities for peace within creation. This focus continues to speak to many current situations of violence.