“I have plenty... I have everything” (33:9,11)
In addition to differences in their chosen vocations, Yaakov and Eisav had completely different perspectives on life. Yaakov Avinu was totally immersed in spiritual pursuits. The life of Eisav Ha’rasha was all about the physical and the material. Spirituality did not play a role of any sort in Eisav’s world view. Satiating his physical desires, fulfilling his material needs, was what made life worth living. One powerful difference exists between the physical/material and the spiritual, with regard to satisfaction.
One who is focused on the physical/material can never satisfy his physical/material hunger. One who is focused on spirituality, however, is satisfied with his physical/material lot in life. We observe their disparate outlooks from the manner in which they spoke. We find Yaakov attempting to appease Eisav by sending him a generous gift prior to their subsequent encounter. At first, Eisav declined the gift, claiming, Yeish li rav, “I have plenty” (33:9). Yaakov, however, prevailed upon him when he said, Yeish li kol, “I have everything” (33:11). Kol – everything – rav – much; is there really a difference? Yes.
One who feels he has it all is satisfied. He has amassed all that he needs, all that he wants. One who says, “I have plenty,” is indicating that he does not have it all; he wants more. One who is immersed in spirituality requires very little materialism. To him, the purpose of material bounty is to help others. Thus, after allowing himself whatever he needs for sustenance, he views whatever is left as extra – something to be shared with those less fortunate than he.
The Eisavs of the world [and most go by other names] are never happy, because they never have enough. Mi she’yeish lo manah – rotzeh masaim; “He who has one hundred (now) wants two hundred.”
