Esau

Technical Profile

Name Meaning: Hebrew עֵשָׂו (‘Esav), “hairy,” reflecting his appearance at birth (Genesis 25:25)
Period/Era: Patriarchal Period
Main References: Genesis 25–36; Obadiah 1; Malachi 1:2–3
Key Connections: Son of Isaac and Rebekah; twin brother of Jacob; ancestor of the Edomites (Seir/Edom)

Who was Esau?

Esau was the firstborn twin son of Isaac and Rebekah, known as a skilled hunter and man of the field.
He became associated with Edom, both through the “red” stew episode and through his later settlement in Seir.
His family line developed into the nation of Edom, a neighboring people of Israel.

Key Events & Achievements

Event 1: Sold his birthright to Jacob for a meal, transferring firstborn privileges (Genesis 25:29–34).
Event 2: Lost Isaac’s primary blessing after Jacob received it by deception, leading to estrangement (Genesis 27).
Event 3: Established a household and lineage in Seir, with chiefs listed as founders of Edom (Genesis 36).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Esau’s story highlights how firstborn status, blessing, and nationhood shaped family relations and later Israel–Edom identity in the patriarchal narratives.

Key Verse

"Esau despised his birthright." — Genesis 25:34, ESV

Quizzes

Answer the questions below. When you choose an option, you will see the result and an explanation.

1. What did Esau trade to Jacob in exchange for a meal?

2. Esau’s family line developed into which nation?