In Islamic tradition, the story of Qabil (also referred to as Cain) and Habil (also referred to as Abel), is a poignant tale of jealousy, morality, and divine justice. According to the Qur’an in Surah Al Maaida, the two sons of Adam were instructed to offer sacrifices to Allah. Abel’s (Habil’s) offering was accepted, while Cain’s (Qabil’s) was rejected. This rejection ignited a profound sense of envy and resentment in Cain, leading him to commit the first act of homicide by killing his brother Abel.

The Qur’an highlights the profound moral implications of this act, underscoring the sanctity of human life and the grave sin of murder. Allah sent a crow (The Quran uses the arabic word غراب – ghurab which is most associated with the Crow) – to peck the dirt and show Cain how to bury his brother, signifying both the finality of death and the need for human dignity, even in death. This story serves as a timeless lesson on the destructive power of envy and the importance of righteousness and humility before God. The narrative also emphasizes the concept of personal responsibility and accountability in one’s actions, reiterating the need to follow divine guidance and uphold justice.

Crows, those enigmatic harbingers of mystery, have fascinated humans for centuries. Known for their remarkable intelligence and adaptability, these jet-black birds exhibit complex social behaviors, problem-solving skills, and even the ability to recognize human faces. From the eerie stillness of an abandoned field to the bustling chaos of urban environments, crows thrive in diverse settings, often serving as symbols in folklore and literature. Their cawing calls and sleek silhouettes lend an air of mystique and intrigue, reminding us of nature’s unpredictable and captivating allure.

Modern Zoologists now study the intriguing behavior of crows holding “funerals” for their dead. When a crow dies, its fellow crows gather around the body, often cawing loudly and appearing agitated. Scientists believe this behavior helps crows learn about potential dangers in their environment, as they pay close attention to what might have caused the death. This unique form of social learning highlights the remarkable intelligence and complex social structure of crows, which rival those of primates.

This also makes great sense why the Quran specifies that the crow would serve as a guide for humans by the command of god. An interesting creature that also does seem to have a social structure to honor/evaluate their dead.