of Hebrew origin (עֵשָׂו); Esau, an Edomite:--Esau.
Transliteration:Ēsaû
Pronunciation:ay-sow'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma Ἠσαῦ (Ēsaû), Strong's number `{{G2269}}`, is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew proper noun עֵשָׂו (Esav), Strong's number `{{H6215}}`. As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to identifying a specific individual: Esau, the elder son of Isaac and Rebekah, and twin brother of Jacob. The Hebrew name עֵשָׂו is commonly associated with the root meaning "hairy" or "rough," reflecting his appearance at birth, as described in [[Genesis 25:25]], where he emerged "red, all over like a hairy garment." Thus, the core meaning is simply the personal name of this significant biblical figure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, Ἠσαῦ (Ēsaû) appears exclusively in three books, each time referencing the Old Testament patriarch:
* **Romans 9:13:** "As it is written, 'Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.'" This citation from Malachi 1:2-3 is central to Paul's argument concerning God's sovereign election. Paul uses the example of Jacob and Esau, born of the same parents and before they had done anything good or bad, to illustrate that God's choice is based not on human works or merit, but on His own purpose and call. The "hated" here signifies a choice of disfavor or non-election for a specific covenantal role, rather than emotional animosity, contrasting with the "loved" (chosen) Jacob.
* **Hebrews 11:20:** "By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come." This verse briefly includes Esau in the "hall of faith," acknowledging Isaac's prophetic blessing of both sons. While Jacob received the primary blessing of the covenant, Esau also received a blessing concerning his posterity and dwelling place ([[Genesis 27:39-40]]), demonstrating Isaac's faith in God's future dealings with both lines.
* **Hebrews 12:16-17:** "Lest there be any fornicator or profane person, like Esau, who for one meal sold his birthright. For you know that afterward, when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for repentance, though he sought it diligently with tears." Here, Esau serves as a stern warning. He is labeled "profane" (βέβηλος - *bebēlos*, meaning "unhallowed," "common," "godless") because he trivialized his sacred birthright—a position of privilege and spiritual inheritance—for immediate physical gratification. His subsequent inability to regain the blessing, despite his fervent tears, highlights the irreversible consequences of despising spiritual things and the danger of a hardened heart that cannot truly repent and reverse a foolish decision.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Hebrew Counterpart:** `{{H6215}}` (עֵשָׂו - Esav) is the direct Hebrew origin of Ἠσαῦ.
* **Jacob:** Esau's twin brother, `{{G2384}}` (Ἰακώβ - Iakōb), is inextricably linked to Esau's narrative, as their lives and destinies are contrasted, particularly in the context of divine election and covenant.
* **Birthright:** A key concept in Esau's story, representing the privileges and inheritance of the firstborn son, which Esau devalued and sold ([[Genesis 25:29-34]]).
* **Blessing:** The patriarchal blessing, particularly Isaac's blessing, which Esau lost to Jacob, leading to significant consequences for his lineage ([[Genesis 27]]).
* **Edom/Edomites:** Esau is the progenitor of the Edomites (`{{H123}}` - אֱדוֹם), and their subsequent history, often marked by conflict with Israel, is a direct consequence of Esau's lineage.
* **Profane/Godless:** The descriptor applied to Esau in Hebrews 12:16 (βέβηλος), emphasizing his disregard for sacred things.
* **Divine Election/Sovereignty:** The theological concept exemplified by God's choice of Jacob over Esau, as expounded in Romans 9.
### Theological Significance
The figure of Esau carries profound theological significance, particularly in the New Testament:
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Election:** The most prominent theological lesson drawn from Esau's story, especially in Romans 9, is God's absolute sovereignty in election. Paul uses Esau and Jacob to demonstrate that God's choice of individuals for His purposes is not based on their merit, works, or even their natural birth order, but solely on His divine will and calling. This underscores that salvation and covenantal participation are ultimately by God's grace and design, not human effort.
2. **The Value of Spiritual Inheritance:** Hebrews 12:16-17 presents Esau as a cautionary tale for believers. His willingness to trade an invaluable spiritual birthright for a fleeting physical pleasure (a single meal) serves as a stark warning against spiritual apathy, materialism, and the neglect of eternal blessings for temporal gratification. He is condemned as "profane" because he treated the sacred as common, illustrating the dangers of despising God's gifts and promises.
3. **Consequences of Disobedience and Unrepentance:** Esau's inability to reverse his decision, despite seeking it with tears, highlights the serious and sometimes irreversible consequences of rejecting God's ways or despising His blessings. It underscores the importance of genuine repentance and the danger of a heart that, having once treated sacred things lightly, finds itself unable to truly change its condition or reclaim what was lost. While God is merciful, there are moments of decisive choice that carry eternal weight.
### Summary
The Greek word Ἠσαῦ (Ēsaû, `{{G2269}}`) refers to Esau, the elder son of Isaac and Rebekah, and twin brother of Jacob, whose name is rooted in his "hairy" appearance. In the New Testament, Esau serves as a pivotal figure in two distinct theological discussions. In Romans 9, he is central to Paul's argument for divine sovereignty and election, illustrating that God's choices are based on His own purpose, not human merit. In Hebrews 12, Esau is presented as a stark warning against profanity and spiritual apathy, having despised his valuable birthright for immediate gratification, thereby losing an irreplaceable blessing. His story underscores the profound importance of valuing spiritual inheritance, the lasting consequences of treating sacred things lightly, and the mysterious yet just nature of divine selection.
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