Esau

Definition

Esau was one of the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah. He was the first baby born to them. His twin brother was Jacob.

• Esau sold his birthright to his brother Jacob in exchange for a bowl of food.
• Since Esau was born first, his father Isaac was supposed to give him a special blessing. But Jacob tricked Isaac into giving him that blessing instead. At first Esau was so angry that he wanted to kill Jacob, but later he forgave him.
• Esau had many children and grandchildren, and these descendants formed a large people group living in the land of Canaan.

(Translation suggestions: How to Translate Names)

(See also: Edom, Isaac, Jacob, Rebekah)

Bible References

• Genesis 25:26
• Genesis 25:29-30
• Genesis 26:34
• Genesis 27:11-12
• Genesis 32:5
• Hebrews 12:17
• Romans 9:13

Examples from the Bible stories

• __6:7 When Rebekah’s babies were born, the older son came out red and hairy, and they named him Esau__.
• __7:2 So Esau__ gave Jacob his rights as the oldest son.
• __7:4 When Isaac felt the goat hair and smelled the clothes, he thought it was Esau__ and blessed him.
• __7:5 Esau__ hated Jacob because Jacob had stolen his rights as oldest son and also his blessing.
• __7:10 But Esau__ had already forgiven Jacob, and they were happy to see each other again.

Word Data

• Strong’s: H6215, G22690