What does it mean "his face fell"?
Genesis 4:5 - 6
NKJV - 5 But He did not respect Cain and his offering. And Cain was very angry, and his countenance fell. 6 So the LORD said to Cain, "Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen?
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Asked May 13 2026
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william believes
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Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
Donna Williams
Supporter
According to the Living Bible translation, "his countenance fell" is described as, "his face grew dark with fury." Cain became very angry, because Yahweh was displeased with his offering, but was pleased with Abel's. He had an opportunity to make things right, however, he surrendered to his anger and murdered his brother. In Genesis 4:6-7, it is evident that Cain had the opportunity to repent, but failed to do so. I see the grace and the mercy of God in this narrative. The LORD warned him about the intention of sin. Sin wanted to take control of his emotions, and succeeded because he yielded!
jackie pippin
Supporter
I didn't do research as Donna did. But where I live the expression that someone's face fell is still very much used. For example, at my granddaughter's birthday party she was waiting for a special friend to arrive. I had to tell her that her friend's mom was having car trouble. Her face immediately fell.
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