Meaning: The quote "Had Cain been Scot, God would have changed his doom nor forced him wander, but confine him home" is a line from a poem by John Cleveland, a 17th-century English poet. The quote is a reference to the biblical story of Cain and Abel, and it presents a thought-provoking perspective on how divine punishment might have been different based on one's nationality or cultural background.

In the biblical narrative, Cain, the eldest son of Adam and Eve, becomes the first murderer by killing his brother Abel out of jealousy. As a consequence of his crime, Cain is sentenced by God to a life of wandering and restlessness: "When you work the ground, it will no longer yield its crops for you. You will be a restless wanderer on the earth" (Genesis 4:12, New International Version). This punishment is often interpreted as a form of exile, forcing Cain to roam the earth without a settled home.

In John Cleveland's poem, the suggestion that "Had Cain been Scot, God would have changed his doom" implies that if Cain had belonged to a different nationality, in this case, Scottish, his fate might have been altered. The poem suggests that God's judgment and punishment might have been more lenient or tailored to Cain's specific cultural identity. Instead of being forced to wander, as the biblical story dictates, Cain would have been confined to his home.

The quote can be interpreted in various ways, and one possible interpretation is that it critiques the idea of divine justice being influenced by external factors such as nationality or ethnic identity. It raises questions about the fairness and impartiality of God's judgment, suggesting that it could be subject to cultural biases or preferences. The quote also invites reflection on the intersection of religious beliefs and cultural perspectives, as well as the ways in which different cultures might perceive and interpret biblical narratives.

John Cleveland, the author of this quote, was a prominent poet during the English Civil War and Interregnum period. Known for his satirical and witty verse, Cleveland often engaged with contemporary political and social issues in his poetry. While this particular quote does not overtly address political themes, it reflects Cleveland's skill in using language and imagery to provoke thought and discussion.

Overall, the quote "Had Cain been Scot, God would have changed his doom nor forced him wander, but confine him home" offers a fascinating insight into the intersection of biblical narratives, cultural identity, and divine judgment. It invites readers to consider the implications of cultural perspectives on religious stories and prompts reflection on the complexities of divine justice and human interpretation.