342. That the second born of the Church is charity becomes clear from the things which the Church conceives and gives birth to, which are nothing other than faith and charity. The first of those born to Leah by Jacob had a similar meaning. Reuben meant faith; Simeon, faith expressed in action; Levi, charity, Genesis 29:32-34. This also was why the tribe of Levi assumed the function of the priesthood and became representative of the shepherd of the flock. Being the second born of the Church, charity is referred to as 'a brother. and is called 'Abel'.

Abel signifies charity or love, in Genesis 4:2. (Divine Providence 242, Arcana Coelestia 325, and Arcana Coelestia 341).

Abel signifies celestial love, which is loving the Lord. Similarly, he represents good conjoined with truth. (Apocalypse Explained 817).

In Genesis 4:2-9, Abel's offering signifies worship from charity as acceptable by the Lord, while worship from faith alone is not. (Arcana Coelestia 325, 341, Apocalypse Explained 817, Arcana Coelestia 326)