בְּכוֹרָה

“These were the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel. Though he was the firstborn, his birthright was given to the sons of Joseph son of Israel, because Reuben defiled his father’s bed. So he is not reckoned according to birthright.”

“They were seated before Joseph in order by age, from the firstborn to the youngest, and the men looked at one another in astonishment.”

“Then Jacob gave some bread and lentil stew to Esau, who ate and drank and then got up and went away. Thus Esau despised his birthright.”

“Instead, he must acknowledge the firstborn, the son of his unloved wife, by giving him a double portion of all that he has. For that son is the firstfruits of his father’s strength; the right of the firstborn belongs to him.”

““First sell me your birthright,” Jacob replied.”

“So Esau declared, “Is he not rightly named Jacob? For he has cheated me twice. He took my birthright, and now he has taken my blessing.” Then he asked, “Haven’t you saved a blessing for me?””

““Swear to me first,” Jacob said. So Esau swore to Jacob and sold him the birthright.”

“And though Judah prevailed over his brothers and a ruler came from him, the birthright belonged to Joseph.”