Idra Raba: Chapter 47

Cain and Abel

Synopsis

Rabbi Shimon tells us how the hidden book says that Atika of Atikin wished to see if the judgments were perfumed; when Adam and Eve joined together a harsh judgment emerged from her, and the world could not tolerate it since the snake instilled the impurity of harsh judgment in her so she could not be perfumed. Even though after Cain's birth she was weakened and became perfumed and gave birth to a sweeter soul, Abel, Cain rose above him because he was stronger, having all the judgments adhering to him. God submerged Cain in the hole of the great abyss together with his brother; they formed one body, from which descend the souls of all sinful people who are strong in spirit.