The word d’mei is written in the plural, lending itself to be translated as “bloods.” Chazal infer from this plural distinction that Kayin’s violent crime was not directed at Hevel alone. Indeed, he is held responsible for shedding the “blood” of all future generations. In an alternative interpretation, Chazal indicate that Hevel bled from different wounds. Not knowing how to kill his brother, Kayin flung sticks and rocks which inflicted many wounds upon his entire body. Only after he struck his neck did Hevel die. Hashem, upon demanding justice from Kayin, emphasized that each and every wound, every bit of…
