An Old Testament patriarch and prophet; the younger of the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah (Gen. 25:19–26). Jacob obtained the birthright over his brother Esau. This was due to Jacob’s worthiness and marrying in the covenant, while Esau despised his birthright and married outside the covenant (Gen. 25:30–34; 26:34–35; 27; 28:6–9; Heb. 12:16).