The given name Esau has its origins in the Hebrew language and culture. It is derived from the Biblical Hebrew word 'asah', meaning 'hairy' or 'rough'. The name first appears in the Book of Genesis in the Hebrew Bible, where Esau is the eldest son of Isaac and Rebekah, and the twin brother of Jacob.

In the Biblical narrative, Esau is described as a skilled hunter and a man of the fields, in contrast to his brother Jacob who is portrayed as a more domestic figure. The name Esau is associated with his hairy appearance at birth, which is described in Genesis 25:25 as "red and hairy like a garment of hair".

The story of Esau and Jacob is a significant one in the Abrahamic religions, as it involves the transfer of the birthright from Esau to Jacob, which ultimately leads to the establishment of the Israelite nation through Jacob's lineage. This tale has been widely interpreted and studied, with Esau's character often seen as representing the physical or worldly aspects of human nature.

One of the earliest recorded individuals named Esau is the Biblical figure himself, whose life is estimated to have taken place around the 18th or 17th century BCE, according to traditional dating. Other notable historical figures bearing the name Esau include:

1. Esau Eccles (1672-1735), an English Baptist minister and author.
2. Esau Edwards (1768-1819), an American Baptist minister and abolitionist.
3. Esau Kahn (1914-1999), a South African anti-apartheid activist and politician.
4. Esau Jenkins (1808-1898), an African American teacher and civil rights activist on Johns Island, South Carolina.
5. Esau Priddy (1807-1859), an American Baptist minister and educator in Kentucky.

While the name Esau has its roots in the Hebrew Bible, it has been adopted and used across various cultures and religious traditions over the centuries, often as a way of honoring the Biblical figure or connecting to the rich symbolism and narrative associated with his story.