The Mark of Cain: Not a Punishment, But an Absolution

The mark of Cain is not a punishment but an absolution. It is God's way of protecting and forgiving Cain for his actions. The mark serves as a warning to others not to harm Cain because he is forgiven. This concept of a mark of absolution can also be seen in other biblical references such as Ezekiel 9:4, where those who express repentance and lament over abominations are marked for mercy. Similarly, the mark parallels the Passover blood on the houses of the Israelites, signifying God's protection. In each case, the mark represents God's ownership and a direct attack on those marked is seen as an attack on God himself and his family.