MPV Commentary

19. These are the generations of Isaac, accounting for the leading events in his life.

21. Isaac prayed to God on behalf of his wife, Rebekah, who was barren despite being married for twenty years. This period of childlessness was a trial similar to that of his father Abraham, but Isaac did not follow the same path as his father. In response to their joint prayers (1 Peter 3:7), Rebekah received a divine revelation that she would give birth to twins, who would be the ancestors of two distinct nations. The descendants of the younger twin would ultimately prevail and subdue those of the older twin (Romans 9:12; 2 Chronicles 21:8).

27. As the boys grew up, they developed opposing characters, manners, and habits.

28. Their parents were divided in their affection for them, with Isaac showing a clear preference for Esau. However, this partiality was based on superficial grounds, leading to unfortunate consequences that often result from such favoritism.

29. Jacob prepared a dish of lentil pottage, which is a common food in Egypt and Syria. It's likely that he used Egyptian beans, as they were not typically found in Esau's region. The aroma of the dish must have been irresistible to Esau, who was famished from his hunting expedition.

31. Jacob proposed a deal to Esau: "Sell me your birthright." This referred to the privileges and rights associated with being the firstborn son, including serving as family priests (Exodus 4:22) and receiving a double portion of the inheritance (Deuteronomy 21:17).

32. Esau responded, "I'm on the verge of death; what good will my birthright do me?" He was willing to trade his spiritual privileges for a bowl of food, demonstrating a callous disregard for his sacred responsibilities. This incident earned him the reputation as a profane person (Hebrews 12:16), and it's often said that there was no meat more dearly bought than this broth of Jacob's.