The Jews being prevented by decree from studying, Pappos met R. Akiba who had defied that decree. Rebuked by Pappos Akiba replied: “A fox on the shore of the sea saw some fish hiding from the nets and hooks. He asked them to come to the dry land to dwell with him. They replied: “Art thou the clever, cunning animal? If in this place where we live we are not safe, how much more are we sure to die on dryland. So with us. If we give up the study of the law we are sure to die.” Shortly afterwards both met
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in prison and Pappos said: "Happy art thou that thou art imprisoned for the sake of the study of the law.” The Rabbi was then led to execution at the time of morning prayer. They combed his flesh with iron combs and he expired with the words, "The Lord is one.”
21. The daughter of the Emperor was once found murdered and the Romans accused the Jews of the murder. Two brothers from Ludikia sacrificed themselves in order to save the rest of the Jews. They were tortured the whole day, having their limbs cut off until their souls departed. Those are the two martyrs of Lud, who sit in the highest place in heaven.