Akavia ben Magalalel held a dissenting opinion on four issues, disagreeing with the opinion of all other teachers of the law. They told him:
“Akavia, give up your opinion, and we will appoint you ab-bet-din (chief judge).
“No,” he answered, “it’s better for me to be called a fool all my life than for one hour to be called a criminal before the Lord.” For the sake of honor and power, I will not do this.
However, before his death, he told his son:
- You give up my opinion on those four issues.
- Why didn’t you refuse? - asked the son.
“You see, my son,” answered Akavia, “I received my opinion from many learned lawyers; my opponents, in turn, were guided by the opinion of many authoritative scientists; Each of the disputing parties remained with its own opinion. You have to choose between two opinions: one you received from a whole college of scientists, the other from an individual, and preference should be given to the opinion of the majority.
“Okay, father, but influence your comrades so that they welcome me into their midst.”
“I won’t do this, my son.”
- Do you know any offense against me?
- No. But let your deeds themselves create either friends or enemies for you in life.
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru