The next main Bible character we come to is Isaac or Yitz’chak in Hebrew.
Unfortunately, the Scriptures don’t give us much information about this number two Biblical Patriarch.
We know Isaac was quite wealthy because he took over his father’s wealth.
We also know he was a shepherd like his father and wandered around constantly so he could find fresh pasture for the many flocks and herds he had inherited.
And like Abraham, the Lord also appeared to Isaac to reassure him that the covenant promises originally given to his father about becoming “a father to a multitude of nations” would continue through Isaac’s line.
Onward, we’re next told that Isaac through his wife Rebecca gave birth to two twin sons: Esau and Jacob.
Since Esau was the first one who popped out of the womb, the traditions of the time dictated it would would be Esau who would become the rightful heir to his father’s riches and the authority to lead the clan.
However, we’re going to see that fate (or God?) had other plans.
Years later in what the Torah describes as a fleshly and impulsive decision on Esau’s part, we’re told that Esau sold his birthright to Jacob for just one bowl of lentil soup (I sure hope that soup tasted good) after returning from a hunting expedition.
Now here’s something that might surprise you.
Back in the days of the Bible, selling one’s birthright was actually quite a normal thing that happened with regular frequency.
However, what Esau did (selling his birthright for a mere bowl of soup) was NOT a common thing.
Esau’s actions no doubt reflected his lack of character and spiritual strength to resist temptation.
We’ll talk about this a bit more the next time we meet.
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