12:16 Esau is presented as an example of one who despised the promises of God (in contrast to the people of faith in ch. 11), and whose loss was irrevocable (v. 17). Moses traded Egypt’s treasures for the disgrace of Christ because he saw the reward (11:26); Esau traded his birthright for a bowl of food because lentil stew was all he could see (Gen. 25:29–34).

sold his birthright. As firstborn son, Esau had a special “birthright” (Gen. 25:31–34; 27:36). Later, under the Mosaic law, the right was to a double share of property (Deut. 21:17). In actuality, Esau despised his place in the line of covenant promises, and not property alone.