The answer is: Isaac ate of his venison

Genesis 25:28 - Isaac favored Esau because he enjoyed the game that Esau hunted. This preference is notable as it contrasts with Rebekah's love for Jacob, filling the narrative with tension and themes of familial favoritism that lead to a significant conflict in their story (Genesis 27).

Isaac's favoritism towards Esau reflects not just his culinary preferences, but also the deeper dynamics at play within the family unit. Imagine this assembly: a father warming himself by the fire, eagerly awaiting a savory meal of venison deftly prepared by his skilled son. It's a scene that speaks to our senses — the smell of roasted meat, the feel of kinship, and perhaps a hint of rivalry.

This preference forms the foundation of a dramatic tale steeped in themes of competition, identity, and blessing. While Esau embodies the rugged, outdoorsman archetype, Jacob represents the crafty homebody. Their contrasting personalities weren’t just about differing developing talents; they highlighted the fragmented family bonds that would shape the future of Israel. Underscoring this family friction is the often overlooked chapter in Genesis where Rebekah's listening in leads to the eventual attempt to supplant Isaac's blessing from Esau to Jacob.

Interestingly, family dynamics aside, fishing and hunting were vital for survival in ancient times, making Esau's prowess pragmatically important. Moreover, history tells us that venison — the prized catch — wasn’t just sustenance but a part of the tribal identity and culture, tying the family to their shared customs and heritage. It’s a narrative rich in echoes of human emotion: love, rivalry, betrayal, and ultimately, the journey towards self-understanding that resonates through many families across ages. Isaac’s love for Esau enriches this colorful scripture, reminding us how preferences can shape destinies.