What was Esau's birthright?
What did Esau's birthright consist of?
Hebrews 12:16 - 17
ESV - 16 That no one is sexually immoral or unholy like Esau, who sold his birthright for a single meal. 17 For you know that afterward, when he desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no chance to repent, though he sought it with tears.
Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
Tim Maas
Supporter
The birthright was the preference given to the firstborn son in the distribution of a father's wealth to his children following the father's death. Although Isaac, Esau, and Jacob all lived before the giving of the Law to the nation of Israel following the exodus from Egypt, Deuteronomy 21:17 specified that, following a father's death, the firstborn son (which Esau was (Genesis 25:24-26)) was to receive a double share (that is, twice as much as his brothers) of his father's (in this case, Isaac's) estate. However, a father could also revoke the firstborn son's birthright and assign it to another son, as Jacob did in Genesis 49:3-4, by taking away the birthright of Reuben (Jacob's actual firstborn son) because Reuben had slept with Jacob's concubine Bilhah (Genesis 35:22). (Reuben's birthright was then assigned to Joseph.) In the case of Esau and Jacob (as cited in the question), Esau forfeited his birthright to Jacob in exchange for food (Genesis 25:29-34).
Add your Answer
All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.
A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.
- Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
- Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
- Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
- Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
- For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible