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.