Esau facts for kids
Esau was an important person in the Book of Genesis from the Bible. He was the older twin brother of Jacob. Their parents were Isaac and Rebekah. Esau was known as a skilled hunter who loved being outdoors.
Contents
Esau's Birthright
One famous story about Esau is when he sold his special "birthright" to Jacob. A birthright was a big deal back then. It meant the oldest son got extra rights and a larger share of the family's wealth. Esau was very hungry after hunting. He traded his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of lentil stew. This showed that Esau didn't value his birthright as much as Jacob did.
The Stolen Blessing
Later, Esau was also tricked out of his father's special blessing. His mother, Rebekah, and his brother, Jacob, worked together. Isaac, who was old and couldn't see well, wanted to give his blessing to Esau. Jacob pretended to be Esau and received the blessing instead. This caused a lot of trouble between the brothers.
Esau's Family
Esau had several wives. Two of them were Judith and Bashemath. Later, he married his cousin, Mahalath. He did this to make his parents happy.
Reconciliation with Jacob
After many years, Esau and Jacob met again. Esau had become a powerful leader. He had many followers and much wealth. When they met, Esau forgave Jacob for the past. They hugged and cried, showing that their relationship had healed.
Images for kids
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Esau selling his birthright to Jacob by Matthias Stom, 1640s
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Esau and Jacob Presented to Isaac (painting circa 1779–1801 by Benjamin West)
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Isaac upon Esau's Return (fresco circa 1292–1294 by Giotto di Bondone)
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The Birth of Esau and Jacob (illumination by Master of Jean de Mandeville, Paris, from a Bible Historiale c. 1360–1370)
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The reconciliation of Jacob and Esau (1640 painting by Jan van den Hoecke)
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Esau Sells His Birthright (from the 1728 Figures de la Bible)
See also
In Spanish: Esaú para niños
