This episode challenges the common assumption that Jacob was a thief who stole Esau’s birthright. Nathan Conkey argues instead that scripture shows Jacob as an upright man, an ish tam (undefiled, perfect, upright), while Esau is revealed as profane, careless, and contemptuous of holy things. By exploring the Hebrew text, the prophetic promises given before the twins were born, and Jacob’s conduct in preparing stew and securing a lawful oath, Nathan demonstrates that Jacob acted justly and in accordance with God’s will. The transaction between the brothers was a simple, binding exchange: Esau willingly sold his birthright for bread and stew, showing that he despised what was sacred.

The episode further warns against taking Esau’s false accusation at face value, as much of the church has done for centuries. By echoing Esau’s claim that Jacob “took” his birthright, Christians have borne false witness against the man whom God loved. Esau’s contempt for his inheritance, his profane swearing, his marriages to Hittite women, and his violent intentions all reveal him as the seed of the serpent, while Jacob stands in the line of the promised seed. Nathan urges believers to meditate carefully on God’s Word, like the Bereans, rather than relying on tradition or superficial readings. The conclusion is clear: Jacob did not steal; Esau despised—and God’s judgment between them remains decisive.