Bava Metzia 99 - June 6, 29 Iyar

Today's learning is sponsored by Lori Schuldiner Schor, on the occasion of her 65th birthday. "With gratitude for access to meaningful learning, and with appreciation for the love and support of my family and friends, throughout the years, to this very day (ad haYom haZeh)."

Today's daf is sponsored by Dianne Kuchar in loving memory of Dennis. "Today was Dennis’ birthday. He was 6 months older than me, both being born in 56. He died at 65, two years ago. On June 6, in two years time, we will complete the daf yomi learning cycle of 7 1/2 years. I thank Hadran, Rabbanit Michelle, and all the daffers for their support."

At what point does a borrower assume responsibility for unanticipated damage? The Mishna rules that if the borrower agrees that the lender can send the object to them with someone else, the borrower is already responsible, even if the lender sends it with their slave. Rav and Shmuel disagree about whether this law relates to a Jewish slave or a Canaanite slave. The Gemara questions Rav's position that it refers to a Canaanite slave, as a Canaanite slave is considered an extension of the owner. However, the issue is resolved by employing an ukimta, establishing the Mishna in a particular situation. There are different opinions about when an owner can change their mind and decide not to loan out a borrowed item. Shmuel rules on a different issue: if one steals an item that can be sold in bulk at a lower price or sold by unit at a higher price, what price does the thief need to reimburse the owner? He holds that a robber would pay the higher amount if it is hekdesh (consecrated item) and the lower amount if it is to an individual. However, a difficulty is raised as Shmuel in a different context equates hekdesh and non-hekdesh. To resolve the difficulty, they say that Shmuel changed his mind about the latter source.