Rav and Shemuel continue to disagree three times concerning Jewish law on our daf TB Eruvin 90. I’ve come to respect these two scholars even more after studying the second case about carrying on a boat on Shabbat.
“It was further stated that these same amora’im disagreed with regard to a large ship. Rav said: It is permitted to move an object throughout the entire ship, as it is all one domain; and Shmuel said: One may move an object in it only within four cubits. The Gemara proceeds to clarify their respective opinions. Rav said: It is permitted to move an object throughout the boat, as there are partitions. And Shmuel said: One may move an object in it only within four cubits, as the partitions of the ship are not considered full-fledged partitions; they are erected only to keep water out, not to render it a residence.
“Rav Ḥiyya bar Yosef said to Shmuel: Is the halakha in accordance with your opinion or is the halakha in accordance with the opinion of Rav? Shmuel said to him: The halakha is in accordance with the opinion of Rav, as his rationale is more convincing” (Sefaria.org translation)
Both men were striving for truth and clarity. Digging in his position would have been the easiest thing in the world for Shmuel. We live in a world of zeo sum game. I can only win if the other person looses. Shemuel acknowledges that Rav’s position is more convincing; consequently, he rules that the halakha follows Rav and not him. Shemuel was a man of great integrety and humility. For me this is a sign of a great person.
I hope that the newly elected leaders of country follow Shemuel’s example and work what is the best for our country and not to retain political power at the expense of the other party.
No comments:
Post a Comment