In the biblical narrative, Esau, the elder son of Isaac and Rebekah, is a figure whose actions and decisions provide insight into the theme of responsibility and the human tendency to shift blame. Esau's life, as recorded in the Book of Genesis, offers several instances where he attempts to deflect responsibility for his choices, particularly in relation to his birthright and blessing.

The Sale of the Birthright

One of the most significant episodes involving Esau is the sale of his birthright to his younger brother, Jacob. In Genesis 25:29-34, Esau returns from the field famished and impulsively agrees to sell his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of stew. The text states, "Esau despised his birthright" (Genesis 25:34), indicating a lack of appreciation for the spiritual and familial responsibilities it entailed. Later, when reflecting on this transaction, Esau does not acknowledge his own shortsightedness or lack of self-control. Instead, he seems to view himself as a victim of circumstance, failing to take responsibility for his decision to prioritize immediate gratification over long-term blessing.

The Loss of the Blessing

The narrative continues with the account of Jacob deceiving Isaac to receive the blessing intended for Esau (Genesis 27). When Esau discovers that Jacob has received the blessing through deception, he is distraught and pleads with his father for a blessing of his own. Esau's response to the situation is one of anger and a desire for retribution against Jacob, as seen in Genesis 27:41: "Esau held a grudge against Jacob because of the blessing his father had given him." While Jacob's actions were deceitful, Esau's focus on blaming Jacob overlooks his own role in the earlier sale of his birthright, which set the stage for the loss of the blessing.

Marriage to Canaanite Women

Another aspect of Esau's life that highlights his attempts to shift responsibility is his choice of wives. Esau marries Canaanite women, which is a source of grief to his parents, Isaac and Rebekah (Genesis 26:34-35). This decision reflects a disregard for the covenantal responsibilities associated with his heritage. When Esau later realizes that his marriages displease his parents, he attempts to rectify the situation by marrying a daughter of Ishmael (Genesis 28:8-9). However, this action appears to be more of an attempt to appease his parents rather than a genuine acknowledgment of his responsibility to uphold the covenantal values of his family.

Reflection on Esau's Attempts to Shift Responsibility

Esau's life serves as a cautionary tale about the human inclination to shift blame and avoid taking responsibility for one's actions. His account illustrates the consequences of failing to value spiritual responsibilities and the tendency to externalize blame rather than engage in self-reflection and repentance. Throughout the narrative, Esau's focus remains on the perceived injustices done to him, rather than on his own decisions and their impact on his life and legacy.Genesis 27:36
And he said, Is not he rightly named Jacob? for he has supplanted me these two times: he took away my birthright; and, behold, now he has taken away my blessing. And he said, Have you not reserved a blessing for me?
Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 25:29-34
And Jacob sod pottage: and Esau came from the field, and he was faint:
Nave's Topical Index

Chapter iv
... a Hifil, and therefore causative, emphasizing the moral responsibility. ... First the
divine word attempts to waken in ... taken place in him, a shift of allegiance to ...
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