What does the Bible say about God's love for Jacob and hate for Esau?

In Malachi 1:2-3, God reveals His sovereign love for Jacob and hatred for Esau, indicating that this divine choice occurred before either was born, highlighting God's initiative in salvation. This notion of election is echoed in Romans 9, where the Apostle Paul affirms God's sovereign right to choose recipients of His mercy. God's love for Jacob represents His covenant faithfulness, while His rejection of Esau illustrates the seriousness of sin and rebellion. This demonstrates that God’s election is based solely on His purpose and will, not on human merit or action.