What does the Bible say about Jacob and Esau?

In the biblical narrative, Jacob and Esau are the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah. They symbolize two distinct natures: Jacob represents the new man of grace, while Esau symbolizes the old man of flesh. The Apostle Paul, in Romans 9:11-13, highlights that God's choice was made before the twins were born, signifying that He would show mercy to Jacob while passing by Esau. This distinction underscores the sovereign grace of God in election, as God bestows unmerited favor on some while hardening others in their natural state.