_The Hebrew spelling of this word means ‘breath,’ ‘vapor,’ that which is ‘insubstantial.’  However, it is more likely that the name should be linked with the Accadian word meaning ‘son.’  Abel was the second son of Adam and Eve and was murdered by his brother Cain because God preferred Abel’s sacrifice over Cain’s.

Abel is referenced multiple times throughout the Bible, including in Heb 11:4; 1 John 3:12; Matt. 23:35; Luke 11:51; and Heb 12:24, always as a faithful, innocent, righteous man. 

Biblical references:
Genesis 4:2- “Next she bore his brother Abel.  Abel became a keeper of flocks, and Cain a tiller of the soil. 
Genesis 4:4- “…while Abel, for his part, brought one of the best firstlings of his flock.  The Lord looked with favor on Abel and his offering,…”
Genesis 4:8- “Cain said to his brother Abel, “Let us go out in the field.”  When they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother Abel and killed him.” 


Sources:
Catholic Book Publishing. (various) Genesis: Chapter 2 Notes. “St. Joseph Edition, New American Bible.” New York, NY: Catholic Book Publishing.

Green, Kevin (compiler). (2008). Eden. “All-In-One Bible Reference Guide”.  Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan.

Lockyear Sr., H. (Ed.) (1986) Eden. “Illustrated Dictionary of the Bible”. Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson Publishers.