Daily dose of wisdom, Shabbat 3

The Talmud teaches a key concept in the laws of Shabbat.  Based on Leviticus 4:27, Rebi teaches that when one man does a forbidden act of labor completely he is liable (to bring an offering if it was by mistake and to death if on purpose with witnesses and warning).  But if two men did the act together they are not liable.
There is an inmate difference between what you accomplish by yourself compared to what you need other people to finish.  When you rely on other people to finish your work, you cannot get the same result. The end product does not reflect your own essence.
Today the gemara also brings Rabbi Hiya telling Rav not to ask their teacher Rebi questions that are not on the topic they are learning. Rebi was able to give the correct answer since he was a great sage, but most people would get embarrassed.  Stay on topic.

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