25 ²⁷ The boys grew up; and Esau became skilful in hunting, a man of the open plains, but Jacob led a settled life and stayed among the tents. 25 ²⁸ Isaac favoured Esau because he kept him supplied with venison, but Rebecca favoured Jacob.

25 ²⁹ One day Jacob prepared a broth and when Esau came in from the country, exhausted, 25 ³⁰ he said to Jacob, 'I am exhausted; let me swallow some of that red broth': this is why he was called Edom That is Red. 25 ³¹ Jacob said, 'Not till you sell me your rights as the first-born.' 25 ³² Esau replied, 'I am at death's door; what use is my birthright to me?' 25 ³³ Jacob said, 'Not till you swear!'; so he swore an oath and sold his birthright to Jacob. 25 ³⁴ Then Jacob gave Esau bread and the lentil broth, and he ate and drank and went away without more ado. Thus Esau showed how little he valued his birthright.