Translations
Original
Notes
On this occasion, Jacob proved to be the better hunter. However, strong ambition like this can be dangerous. God’s people should desire what God desires, but they must not try to gain these things by human effort (see Zechariah 4:6; Galatians 5:16–17; Ephesians 6:10–12).
The Lord dealt strictly with Jacob to remove his sinful methods. Later, he received the promise not as Jacob the deceiver, but as Israel (which means “God fights”). God fought on his behalf (Genesis 32:28).
Jacob and Esau developed according to their early traits (25:24–26).
Esau, the reddish, hairy man, cared about physical things rather than spiritual things (see Hebrews 12:16). His desires eventually overcame him and he sold his birthright.
Jacob, the heel grabber, knew the birthright’s value. He made a ruthless deal to win it from his brother.
People
Israel: Patriarch, son of Isaac, father of twelve tribes
Glossary
Archaeology and the Bible Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Birthright Ebla Tablets Esau Family Life and Relations Genesis, Book of Lentil Mishma Nathanael Nuzi, Nuzi Tablets Patriarchs, Period of the Pottage Rebecca, Rebekah
Topics
Birthright: Sold by Esau Covetousness in Buying Esau's Birthright Craftiness: Jacob, in Purchase of Esau's Birthright Dishonesty: Jacob Obtains his Brother's Birthright by an Unjust Advantage Esau: Sells his Birthright for a Single Meal Extortion: Jacob in Demanding Esau's Birthright for a Mess of Pottage Firstborn: Birthright of The: Sold by Esau Gluttony: Esau Jacob: Obtains Esau's Birthright for Just One Bowl of Stew Responsibility: Attempts to Shift: Esau The First Born: Privileges of Could be Sold Worldliness: Esau Worldliness: Jacob