The first one came out red, covered with hair like a fur coat; so they named him Esau. The first one came out redThe Hebrew word for "red" is "אָדְמוֹנִי" (admoni), which is derived from "אָדֹם" (adom), meaning red or ruddy. This description of Esau's appearance is significant as it foreshadows his later association with Edom, a name that also means red. The color red in biblical symbolism often represents earthiness, passion, and sometimes violence, which can be seen in Esau's later life choices and his descendants, the Edomites. This detail sets the stage for Esau's character and the role he will play in the biblical narrative. covered with hair like a fur coat
The phrase "covered with hair" uses the Hebrew word "שֵׂעָר" (se'ar), meaning hair. This unusual amount of hair at birth is noteworthy and becomes a defining characteristic of Esau. In the ancient Near Eastern context, hairiness could symbolize strength and virility. The comparison to a "fur coat" emphasizes the extent of his hairiness, suggesting a wild, untamed nature. This physical description not only distinguishes Esau from his twin brother Jacob but also hints at his future as a man of the field, living a rugged, outdoor life. so they named him Esau
The name "Esau" (עֵשָׂו) is believed to be related to the Hebrew word "עָשָׂה" (asah), meaning "to do" or "to make," possibly implying "made" or "completed," as if he was fully formed or mature at birth. Naming in the Bible often reflects character or destiny, and Esau's name is no exception. It encapsulates his physical traits and foreshadows his role in the biblical story. Esau's name and appearance are integral to the unfolding of God's plan, as they set the stage for the sibling rivalry and the eventual fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham through Jacob, not Esau. This highlights the theme of God's sovereignty and the unexpected ways He chooses to fulfill His promises. Persons / Places / Events 1. EsauThe firstborn son of Isaac and Rebekah, described as red and hairy at birth. His name, Esau, is derived from the Hebrew word "Esav," which is related to "asah," meaning "to do" or "to make," possibly indicating his robust and active nature. 2. IsaacThe father of Esau and Jacob, son of Abraham and Sarah. Isaac's role as a patriarch is crucial in the continuation of God's covenant with Abraham. 3. RebekahThe mother of Esau and Jacob, wife of Isaac. Her pregnancy was marked by a divine revelation that the older son would serve the younger, setting the stage for future events. 4. JacobEsau's twin brother, who was born immediately after him. Jacob's name, meaning "heel-grabber" or "supplanter," foreshadows his future actions in relation to Esau. 5. Birth of Esau and JacobThis event marks the beginning of a significant biblical account involving themes of birthright, blessing, and God's sovereign choice. Teaching Points Understanding God's SovereigntyThe birth of Esau and Jacob reminds us of God's sovereign plan and His ability to work through human history to fulfill His purposes. We should trust in God's plan even when it seems contrary to human expectations. The Importance of Birthright and BlessingEsau's account highlights the significance of spiritual inheritance and the consequences of undervaluing God's blessings. We should cherish and protect the spiritual gifts and responsibilities entrusted to us. Character and Choices MatterEsau's physical description and later actions reflect his character. Our outward actions often reveal our inner character, and we should strive to align our lives with God's will. Sibling Rivalry and ReconciliationThe relationship between Esau and Jacob is marked by conflict and eventual reconciliation. This teaches us the importance of forgiveness and seeking peace in our relationships. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the description of Esau at birth foreshadow his future actions and character? Consider the significance of names and physical traits in biblical accounts. 2. In what ways does the account of Esau and Jacob illustrate the theme of God's sovereignty and human responsibility? How can we apply this understanding to our own lives? 3. Reflect on the concept of birthright in the biblical context. How does Esau's attitude towards his birthright challenge us to evaluate our own spiritual priorities? 4. How does the relationship between Esau and Jacob evolve throughout their lives? What lessons can we learn about conflict resolution and reconciliation from their account? 5. Considering Hebrews 12:16-17, what warnings can we take from Esau's example about the consequences of short-sighted decisions? How can we guard against similar pitfalls in our spiritual journey? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 25:23This verse provides context for the birth of Esau and Jacob, where God reveals to Rebekah that two nations are in her womb and the older will serve the younger, highlighting God's sovereign plan. Hebrews 12:16-17This passage warns against godlessness like Esau, who sold his birthright for a single meal, emphasizing the spiritual implications of Esau's choices. Malachi 1:2-3God expresses His love for Jacob over Esau, illustrating the theme of divine election and the consequences of Esau's actions. People Abraham, Abida, Abidah, Adbeel, Aram, Asshurim, Asshurites, Bethuel, Dedan, Dumah, Eldaah, Enoch, Ephah, Epher, Ephron, Esau, Hadad, Hadar, Hagar, Hanoch, Havilah, Heth, Hittites, Isaac, Ishbak, Ishmael, Jacob, Jetur, Jokshan, Kedar, Kedemah, Keturah, Laban, Letushim, Letushites, Leummim, Leummites, Mamre, Massa, Medan, Mibsam, Mishma, Naphish, Nebaioth, Nebajoth, Rebekah, Sarah, Shuah, Tema, Zimran, Zoar, ZoharPlaces Assyria, Beer-lahai-roi, Egypt, Machpelah, Mamre, Paddan-aram, Shur DesertTopics Body, Born, Esau, Foot, Forth, Garment, Hair, Hairy, Mantle, Named, Red, Robe, RuddyDictionary of Bible Themes Genesis 25:21-26 5095 Jacob, life
5652 babies
5739 twins Genesis 25:21-34 7530 foreigners Library Pottage Versus Birthright
Esau despised his birthright'--GENESIS xxv. 34. Broad lessons unmistakable, but points strange and difficult to throw oneself back to so different a set of ideas. So I. Deal with the narrative. Not to tell it over again, but bring out the following points:-- (a) Birthright.--What? None of them any notion of sacred, spiritual aspect of it. To all, merely material advantages: headship of the clan. All the loftier aspects gone from Isaac, who thought he could give it for venison, from Esau, and from …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureThe Death of Abraham
'Then Abraham gave up the ghost, and died in a good old age, an old man, and full of years; and was gathered to his people.'--GENESIS xxv. 8. 'Full of years' does not seem to me to be a mere synonym for longevity. That would be an intolerable tautology, for we should then have the same thing said three times over--'an old man,' 'in a good old age,' 'full of years.' There must be some other idea than that in the words. If you notice that the expression is by no means a usual one, that it is only …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Jacob and Esau
(Second Sunday in Lent.) GENESIS xxv. 29-34. And Jacob sod pottage: and Esau came from the field, and he was faint: And Esau said to Jacob, Feed me, I pray thee, with that same red pottage; for I am faint: therefore was his name called Edom. And Jacob said, Sell me this day thy birthright. And Esau said, Behold, I am at the point to die: and what profit shall this birthright do to me? And Jacob said, Swear to me this day; and he sware unto him: and he sold his birthright unto Jacob. Then …
Charles Kingsley—The Gospel of the Pentateuch Jesus Heals Multitudes Beside the Sea of Galilee.
^A Matt. XII. 15-21; ^B Mark III. 7-12. ^a 15 And Jesus perceiving it withdrew ^b with his disciples ^a from thence: ^b to the sea [This was the first withdrawal of Jesus for the avowed purpose of self-preservation. After this we find Jesus constantly retiring to avoid the plots of his enemies. The Sea of Galilee, with its boats and its shores touching different jurisdictions, formed a convenient and fairly safe retreat]: ^a and many followed him; ^b and a great multitude from Galilee followed; and …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel Every Believer's Birthright.
On every hand a lack of something is being felt and expressed by God's people. Their Christian experience is not what they expected it would be. Instead of expected victory, it is oft-recurring, dreaded defeat; instead of soul satisfaction, it is soul hunger; instead of deep, abiding heart rest, it is disquiet and discontent; instead of advancing, it is losing ground. Is this all Christ meant when He said, "Come unto Me"? Is this life of constant disappointment the normal life of the Bible Christian? …
John MacNeil—The Spirit-Filled Life Second Great Group of Parables.
(Probably in Peræa.) Subdivision D. Parable of the Lost Son. ^C Luke XV. 11-32. ^c 11 And he said, A certain man had two sons [These two sons represent the professedly religious (the elder) and the openly irreligious (the younger). They have special reference to the two parties found in the first two verses of this chapter --the Pharisees, the publicans and sinners]: 12 and the younger of them [the more childish and easily deceived] said to his father, Father, give me the portion of thy substance …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel Conflict.
"Therefore let us also, seeing we are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the Author and Perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the Cross, despising shame, and hath sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him that hath endured such gainsaying of sinners against themselves, that ye …
Thomas Charles Edwards—The Expositor's Bible: The Epistle to the Hebrews John the Baptist's Person and Preaching.
(in the Wilderness of Judæa, and on the Banks of the Jordan, Occupying Several Months, Probably a.d. 25 or 26.) ^A Matt. III. 1-12; ^B Mark I. 1-8; ^C Luke III. 1-18. ^b 1 The beginning of the gospel [John begins his Gospel from eternity, where the Word is found coexistent with God. Matthew begins with Jesus, the humanly generated son of Abraham and David, born in the days of Herod the king. Luke begins with the birth of John the Baptist, the Messiah's herald; and Mark begins with the ministry …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel But if Moreover any not Having Charity, which Pertaineth to the Unity of Spirit...
23. But if moreover any not having charity, which pertaineth to the unity of spirit and the bond of peace whereby the Catholic Church is gathered and knit together, being involved in any schism, doth, that he may not deny Christ, suffer tribulations, straits, hunger, nakedness, persecution, perils, prisons, bonds, torments, swords, or flames, or wild beasts, or the very cross, through fear of hell and everlasting fire; in nowise is all this to be blamed, nay rather this also is a patience meet to …
St. Augustine—On Patience Of the Effects of those Prerogatives.
From these prerogatives there will arise to the elect in heaven, five notable effects:-- 1. They shall know God with a perfect knowledge (1 Cor. i. 10), so far as creatures can possibly comprehend the Creator. For there we shall see the Word, the Creator; and in the Word, all creatures that by the Word were created; so that we shall not need to learn (of the things which were made) the knowledge of him by whom all things were made. The most excellent creatures in this life, are but as a dark veil …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety Travelling in Palestine --Roads, Inns, Hospitality, Custom-House Officers, Taxation, Publicans
It was the very busiest road in Palestine, on which the publican Levi Matthew sat at the receipt of "custom," when our Lord called him to the fellowship of the Gospel, and he then made that great feast to which he invited his fellow-publicans, that they also might see and hear Him in Whom he had found life and peace (Luke 5:29). For, it was the only truly international road of all those which passed through Palestine; indeed, it formed one of the great highways of the world's commerce. At the time …
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life Genesis
The Old Testament opens very impressively. In measured and dignified language it introduces the story of Israel's origin and settlement upon the land of Canaan (Gen.--Josh.) by the story of creation, i.-ii. 4a, and thus suggests, at the very beginning, the far-reaching purpose and the world-wide significance of the people and religion of Israel. The narrative has not travelled far till it becomes apparent that its dominant interests are to be religious and moral; for, after a pictorial sketch of …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Genesis 25:25 NIVGenesis 25:25 NLTGenesis 25:25 ESVGenesis 25:25 NASBGenesis 25:25 KJV
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