Rabbi Zeira and the Ruffians Who Repented at His Death

Yalkut Shimoni on Torah 115:14

Curated by Arthur·Told by Maggid·

"And he smelled the smell of his garments" (Genesis 27:27): there were certain ruffians in Rabbi Zeira's neighborhood whom he drew near, so that they might turn back in repentance, and the rabbis were displeased with him for it. When Rabbi Zeira's soul departed, they said, "Until now there was the short one with the scorched legs who would seek mercy for us; now who will seek mercy for us?" They reflected in their hearts and repented.

Themes

RepentanceExempla RabbisPrayer

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