The dialogue between Yakov and Eisav on the day that the birthright was sold, was very telling. It clearly demonstrated two distinct outlooks on life.
The Pasuk that said it all, was when Eisav said to Yakov, “Behold I am going to die, why would I need a birthright?” It was clear that Eisav did not believe in Olam Haba, the Hereafter.
Eisav believed that death was very final and absolute for man. He did not believe in accountability for his actions. Therefore, his world revolved around self gratification and indulgences that would make him happy for the moment.
He became a wild man with no scruples, despite being raised by his saintly parents, Yitzchak and Rivka. Perhaps he was influenced by others who shared his philosophy. But in the end, he allowed himself to fall very hard. There was no fear of Heaven or spirituality in his life.
Yakov, on the other hand, recognized the צלם אלוקים, the image of G-d, that he possessed. He was a יושב אהלים, a tent dweller, where he could ponder the universe and try to figure out his own potential. He spent fourteen years in the Yeshiva of Shem and Ever so that he would develop the tools needed to cope with his evil Uncle Lavan, and a possible confrontation with his brother, Eisav.
He recognized that this world was not perfect, and the true reward for man’s deeds was in the next world. He also understood that man had to elevate himself, and not allow himself to succumb to temptations that would distance himself from the spiritual world.
Unlike his brother, Yakov understood that the real joy that man can attain, comes from closeness to Hashem.
It is rather incredible how two brothers from the same parents could be such opposites. We are to learn from their lives how to make the correct choices and live life to the fullest.