Why seven when it says seven times the punishment? (Genesis 4:15)

Question.

In Genesis 4:15, it says that the punishment for killing Cain was to be sevenfold. Why seven?

Answer.

• AI

The sevenfold is one of the most common numbers in the Bible, often used to indicate 'many' or 'comeplete'. In the Bible, the number sevens is very important and considered a sacred number. Because of significance, the phrase 'sevenfold' carries great emphasis and meaning in itself.

When Cain's punishment is referred to as "sevenfold", it may be to emphasize the severity and weight of the punishment. it would indicate the gravity of his sin and emphasize how much responsibility he had before God's righteousness.