The "Gift for Esau" refers to the substantial offering that Jacob prepared and sent ahead to his brother Esau as a gesture of reconciliation and appeasement. This event is recorded in Genesis 32:13-21. The context of this gift is deeply rooted in the strained relationship between the two brothers, stemming from Jacob's earlier deception to obtain Esau's birthright and blessing (Genesis 25:29-34; 27:1-40).

Context and Background

Jacob and Esau were the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah. Esau, the elder, was entitled to the birthright and the blessing of the firstborn, but Jacob, with the help of his mother, deceived Isaac and received the blessing meant for Esau. This act of deception led to a deep rift between the brothers, with Esau harboring intentions to kill Jacob (Genesis 27:41). Consequently, Jacob fled to Haran to live with his uncle Laban, where he remained for many years.

The Gift

After years of separation, Jacob decided to return to his homeland. Aware of the potential danger posed by Esau, Jacob sought to pacify his brother's anger with a generous gift. The gift was carefully selected and strategically sent in waves to maximize its impact. Genesis 32:13-15 details the composition of the gift: "He spent the night there, and from what he had brought with him, he selected a gift for his brother Esau: 200 female goats, 20 male goats, 200 ewes, 20 rams, 30 milk camels with their young, 40 cows, 10 bulls, 20 female donkeys, and 10 male donkeys."

Jacob's strategy was to send these animals in successive droves, each accompanied by his servants, with instructions to present them to Esau and to convey Jacob's message of humility and servitude. Jacob instructed his servants to say, "They belong to your servant Jacob. They are a gift sent to my lord Esau. And behold, Jacob is behind us" (Genesis 32:18). This repeated message was intended to soften Esau's heart and demonstrate Jacob's contrition and respect.

Significance

The gift for Esau is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it illustrates Jacob's transformation from a cunning and self-reliant individual to one who acknowledges his past wrongs and seeks reconciliation. Jacob's approach reflects a deep understanding of the need for humility and restitution in mending broken relationships.

Secondly, the gift underscores the importance of material wealth and livestock in the ancient Near Eastern culture as a means of expressing goodwill and securing peace. The sheer size and value of the gift indicate Jacob's earnest desire to find favor in Esau's eyes.

Lastly, the event highlights the theme of divine providence and protection. Despite Jacob's fears, God had promised to be with him and to bring him back to the land of his fathers (Genesis 28:15). The successful reconciliation with Esau, as seen in Genesis 33:4, where Esau runs to meet Jacob and embraces him, is a testament to God's faithfulness and the power of repentance and forgiveness.

In summary, the "Gift for Esau" serves as a powerful narrative of reconciliation, demonstrating the transformative power of humility, repentance, and divine grace in restoring broken relationships.