The Torah describes Esau as “red” upon being born (25:24). However, it is not until later in the Torah portion when Esau says to Jacob, “Pour into me, now some of that very red stuff for I am exhausted” that Esau is called ‘Edom’, which means “red” in Hebrew (25:30).

Why would the Torah make a point of telling us Esau’s nickname (Edom) and why was he only called Edom 13 years later?

Lesson:

We are all born with innate character traits, personalities, capabilities, likes, and dislikes. Mothers of multiple children will often tell you that their children were very different even from the first day of being born, one child was very easy going, another more edgy, etc.

God creates everyone differently, with different inborn traits, dispositions and temperaments.

If that’s the case, how can we be held accountable for acquiescing? For example, if one is born with a stingy nature, how can they be held responsible for being anything other than stingy?

Our Torah portion holds the key: while it is true that God created us with particular dispositions and character traits, what we do with it is up to us. Our job is to channel it for a productive purpose and for the service of God.

Any character trait could be used for a positive, constructive purpose, or the opposite, God forbid. For example, if someone is competitive by nature, one could use that to compare and outcompete those around them. Or, rather, one could use that competitiveness for a constructive purpose, constantly challenging oneself to be the very best in every aspect of their life.

Or if one is naturally more selfish, channel that selfishness to do what it takes (obviously within limits) to make yourself happy. When you are happy, you positively affect your family and those around you.

While Esau was born red, a metaphor for ruthlessness and cruelty, he was not called red until he showed a crudeness of asking Jacob to “pour some of the red stuff” and being willing to sell his birthright for it. Esau used a seemingly negative character trait for the negative. The proof that he could have become something greater with his disposition is that King David is also called “edom”, the red one. Yet, King David channeled that energy and fought and won against Goliath, protecting the Jewish people and sanctifying God’s name. Let’s try to do the same.

Exercise: Identify a weakness in your character and think about how you can channel it in a positive way.

(Idea inspired by “Torah for Your Table”)