Genesis 4:3

in process of time Lit. "at the end of days," a phrase for a period of quite indefinite length; LXX μεθ ʼ ἡμέρας; Lat. post multos dies.

of the fruit of the ground Probably the best, or the earliest, of the fruit, corresponding to the "firstlings" in Abel's offering. Cf. Numbers 18:12, "All the best (Heb. fat) of the oil, and all the best (Heb. fat) of the vintage, and of the corn."

an offering Heb. minḥah, lit. a "gift" or a "present," as in Genesis 32:13, when Jacob sends "a presentfor Esau his brother," and in Genesis 43:11, where he says unto his sons, "carry the man down a present." The word is used especially for "a gift" made to God; and with that sense, especially in P and Ezek., of the "meal offering," cf. Leviticus 2; Leviticus 6:7-10. Here it is used of "offerings to God" generally, both of animals and of the fruits of the earth.

This is the first mention of sacrifice in Scripture. Its origin is not explained, nor is an altar mentioned. Man is assumed to be by nature endowed with religious instincts, and capable of holding converse with God. Worship was man's mode of approach to the Deity; and sacrifice was its outward expression. The purpose of the offering was (1) propitiatory, to win favour, or to avert displeasure; and (2) eucharistic, in expression of gratitude for blessings on home or industry. It was deemed wrong to approach God with empty hands, that is, without an offering or gift, Exodus 23:15; Exodus 25:30.