Indeed, Esau traded his birthright for food (Genesis 25). God chose Jacob for His mercy before either child was born (Romans 9). Then again, God sees the future as if it were already past (Psalms 90:4) - so He already knew Esau and Jacob.
"God chose Jacob for His mercy before either child was born
(Romans 9)"
It is useful to note that Romans 9 does NOT say that Esau was "hated," or "chosen to be hated," before he was born.
DG
p.s. I know you did not say this, but some do.
Esau was a simple man, ruled by his senses. Jacob, a smooth man, a man of tents, of learning. Natural man and spiritual man, the old second son, new Adamic nature routine.