Abel, whose name means “breath,” is presented as the first man of faith in the opening chapter of Genesis. The episode contrasts his experience with that of Adam and Eve, who walked in the garden “by sight,” and shows how Abel’s faith was exercised in a world where the divine presence was unseen.

Why Abel Is Called the First Man of Faith

While Adam and Eve had the privilege of seeing God’s presence in Eden, Abel was conceived and born outside the garden, after the fall. The speaker notes that Abel \