The Sale of the Birthright
T. H. Leale. Genesis 25:29-34 And Jacob sod pottage: and Esau came from the field, and he was faint:… Esau may be regarded as the founder of the Epicurean sort, of all whose motto and philosophy of life is, "Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die." Such is the chief lesson of this history. But this history, considered in itself, shows us that both the parties to this bargain are to blame. It was unrighteous business, and altogether discreditable to the two brothers engaged in it. This is evident if we — I. CONSIDER THE PARTIES ENGAGED IN THIS TRANSACTION AS ORDINARY MEMBERS OF SOCIETY. 1. As to Jacob's conduct. (1) It was marked by unkindness unworthy of a brother. His conduct was most unfeeling. (2) It was marked by low cunning. To take an unfair advantage of his brother's need was a mean device. 2. As to Esau's conduct. (1) He abandoned himself to the delights and temptations of appetite. (2) He was lacking in a true sense of honour and nobility. (3) He was unconcerned for the peace of the future. II. CONSIDER THE PARTIES ENGAGED IN THIS TRANSACTION AS RELIGIOUS MEN. 1. As to Jacob's conduct. (1) It was irreverent. This birthright was a sacred thing, dignified with a religious importance; yet Jacob, in a most profane manner, mixes it up with things secular. He makes it a commercial business of the meanest order. (2) It showed a want of faith in God. (3) It was contrary to the broad, free spirit of true piety. 2. As to Esau's conduct. (1) It showed a powerlessness to resist temptation. (2) It was profane. (a) He preferred the present to the future. (b) He preferred the sensual to the spiritual. (c) He preferred the near and certain to the distant and probable. (T. H. Leale.) Parallel Verses KJV: And Jacob sod pottage: and Esau came from the field, and he was faint: WEB: Jacob boiled stew. Esau came in from the field, and he was famished.