The Power of the Exilarch in Commerce

R. Dimi brought figs from Nehardea on a ship. The exilarch said to Rava, “Go and see. If he is a sage, give him first right of sale in the market.” Rava said to R. Ada bar Abba, “Go appraise his knowledge [lit., take from his vessel].” [R. Ada] went and asked [R. Dimi], “What is the law regarding an elephant that swallowed an Egyptian basket and then excreted it?” [R. Dimi] did not have [the answer] in hand. [R. Dimi] said, “Are you Rava?” [R. Ada] struck him with his sandal and said, “There is a great difference between myself and Rava, but I could be your master and Rava the master of your master!” They did not give him first right of sale in the market and his figs spoiled.

Translated by Matthew Goldstone.