Old Testament
Genesis 25:30
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Esau said to Jacob, "Please, let me have some of that red stew — I'm exhausted!" That is why he was also called Edom.
Compare translations
And Esau said to Jacob, Feed me, I pray thee, with that same red pottage; for I am faint: therefore was his name called Edom.
What Genesis 25:30 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Esau is overwhelmed by hunger and fatigue. He approaches his brother Jacob, pleading for some of the red stew that Jacob is cooking. Esau's desperation highlights how physical needs can drive us to make impulsive decisions. He is so consumed by his immediate need that he is willing to trade away something valuable for a moment of satisfaction. This story illustrates the importance of recognizing our priorities and the consequences of our choices. The name 'Edom' means 'red,' linking Esau to the stew he craved. This connection serves as a reminder of how our actions can define us. Esau's choice to prioritize his hunger over his birthright shows the danger of letting temporary desires overshadow long-term values. It’s a powerful lesson about the need to think carefully before acting on impulse, especially when it comes to significant life decisions. We can all relate to moments of weakness, but it’s crucial to remember what truly matters in the long run.
How to apply Genesis 25:30 to your life
When faced with strong desires, take a moment to reflect before acting. Consider the long-term impact of your choices. It’s easy to get caught up in immediate needs, but remember to prioritize what truly matters in your life. Think about your values and what you want to be known for. Make decisions that align with your true self and goals.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jacob's story: The Birthright (Genesis 25:27–34)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jacob
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Genesis 25:30
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Genesis 25:30
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 25:30 mean?
Genesis 25:30 describes Esau's intense hunger and his plea for Jacob's red stew. This moment illustrates how physical needs can lead to impulsive decisions, as Esau is willing to trade his birthright for immediate satisfaction.
What is the significance of the name Edom in Genesis 25:30?
The name Edom means 'red' and is linked to Esau's craving for the red stew. This connection emphasizes how our actions and choices can define our identity.
What lesson can we learn from Genesis 25:30?
Genesis 25:30 teaches the importance of prioritizing long-term values over temporary desires. It serves as a reminder to think carefully before making impulsive decisions that could have lasting consequences.
Why did Esau trade his birthright for stew in Genesis 25:30?
Esau traded his birthright for stew because he was overwhelmed by hunger and fatigue. This moment highlights how urgent physical needs can cloud judgment and lead to regrettable choices.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.