Their relationship was complex. There was rivalry between them mainly because of Jacob's deceitful actions. But over time, as the story progresses, there was also a form of reconciliation when Esau forgave Jacob.
Well, Jacob deceived Esau in two main ways. Firstly, he exploited Esau's hunger. Esau was so hungry that he was willing to trade his birthright, which was a very important thing in their culture, for a simple bowl of stew. Then, to get the blessing, Jacob followed his mother's plan. He disguised himself as Esau. He wore Esau's clothes, which would have had Esau's scent on them, something that their blind father Isaac could recognize. And he used goatskins to make his skin feel hairy like Esau's. This way, he managed to deceive Isaac into giving him the blessing that was rightfully Esau's.
The story of Jacob and Esau is important because it shows themes of sibling rivalry, divine favor, and the complexity of family dynamics. It also offers lessons in forgiveness and redemption.