Genesis 25

Genesis 25 can be divided into three main sections: Abraham's final years and death, Ishmael's descendants, and Jacob and Esau's birth and rivalry. Abraham's final years and death (Verses 1-11): Abraham married Keturah after Sarah's death and had six more sons. Abraham gave gifts to these sons and sent them away, eastward. Abraham left everything else to Isaac (his son with Sarah). Abraham died at age 175 and was buried in the cave of Machpelah with Sarah. Isaac settled near Lahairoi after Abraham's death. Ishmael's descendants (Verses 12-18): The twelve sons of Ishmael became tribal leaders. Ishmael died at age 137. His descendants settled from Havilah to Shur, east of Egypt. Jacob and Esau's birth and rivalry (Verses 19-34): Isaac (at age 40) married Rebekah, who was initially barren. Isaac prayed for Rebekah, and she conceived twins. During pregnancy, the babies struggled within her womb. God revealed to Rebekah that two nations were in her womb, and the older would serve the younger. Esau was born first (reddish and hairy), followed by Jacob (grasping Esau's heel). Esau became a skilled hunter, while Jacob is described as a "plain man, dwelling in tents." Isaac favored Esau, but Rebekah favored Jacob. Esau sold his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of stew when he came home famished from hunting.