Bible Figure
Esau
in Genesis, the older son of Isaac and the brother of Jacob
Esau was the elder twin son of Isaac and Rebekah, brother of Jacob, and ancestor of the Edomites.
Biography
Genesis portrays Esau as a skillful hunter favored by Isaac, while Rebekah favored Jacob. Famished after returning from the field, Esau sold his birthright to Jacob for food, an act later remembered as despising his birthright. Years later Jacob, aided by Rebekah, obtained Isaac's principal blessing while impersonating Esau. Esau reacted with bitter anger and planned to kill Jacob, prompting Jacob's flight. Yet when the brothers met again after many years, Esau ran to embrace Jacob and received him peacefully. Esau settled in Seir, and Genesis 36 traces his descendants and chiefs, identifying him with Edom.
Biblical Significance
Esau is central to the patriarchal story and to the biblical background of Edom. His story addresses birthright, blessing, family conflict, reconciliation, and the development of two related nations from Isaac's sons.