Definition: And he said, What hast thou done? the voice of thy brother’s blood crieth unto me from the ground.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from Genesis 4:10. It's a really powerful and unsettling passage that sets up a central conflict in the story of life and responsibility. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: The Setup: God is setting up a trial for Adam and Eve. They are in the Garden of Eden, a beautiful place where they have free will – meaning they can make their own choices. The Incident: A serpent (often interpreted as Satan) tries to tempt Eve into eating from the forbidden fruit. He says, "Don't eat it! It will make you like God." Adam’s Response: Adam, overwhelmed by temptation and fear, cries out to God. This cry is very significant because it's a desperate plea for help. He says, “What hast thou done?” Putting it Together - The Meaning: This verse isn't about Adam just being upset; it’s about recognition of the consequences of his actions. It’s a moment where he acknowledges that his choices have a significant impact on others. Here’s what it suggests: Responsibility: Adam is taking responsibility for his actions, even though he didn't actively choose to do them. He’s admitting that his choice – and its outcome – has caused pain. Atonement: The phrase "the voice of thy brother’s blood" is crucial. It suggests a violation of another person’s life or well-being. It implies Adam's actions have harmed someone else, perhaps even his own family (Eve). It hints at a broken relationship and a sense of guilt. Divine Justice: God is observing this situation, recognizing the imbalance created by Adam’s choices. He’s not just reacting to the immediate situation; he’s acknowledging that something has gone wrong. Important Note: The interpretation of "brother's blood" can vary. Some translations suggest it refers to a specific act of violence or betrayal – perhaps a murder committed in the Garden. However, it's generally understood as a violation of another person's life. In short, this verse is a foundational moment that establishes the beginning of humanity’s fall and highlights the importance of responsibility for our actions. --- Do you want to delve deeper into any specific aspect of this verse? For example, would you like to know: More about the symbolism of the serpent? How it relates to the story of temptation and free will? Different interpretations of "brother's blood"?