Morsel
TextsWhat is the meaning of Morsel in the Bible?
The Hebrew term mashkeh, translated as 'morsel' in Genesis 25:29-34 and Hebrews 12:16, refers to a small portion of food, specifically the lentil stew that Esau traded for his birthright, illustrating ancient Near Eastern dietary habits and inheritance customs.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing the literal meaning of this term highlights the contrast between Esau's immediate physical hunger and his dismissal of his spiritual inheritance, thereby clarifying the moral critique of his actions in both the Old and New Testaments.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Morsel functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Morsel in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Morsel clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Genesis 25:29-34Hebrews 12:16
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Morsel." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/morsel/