TOM’S TALMUD TISCH: Episode One Tractate Shabbat, Page 33 b The narration begins with the Rabbis of the Talmud searching for origins about a most unusual leadership title, conferred upon one of the great sages of the day. Following the backstory, we are lead us into a clandestine Rabbinic Round Table about the Roman Occupation of Judea. The range of opinions are rooted in differing schools of Torah thinking, and there's nothing noteworthy to raise any flags -- that is, until word gets out -- and things get heated when the brutal occupational regime receives a report. Rome's reaction and retribution comes swiftly. Rewarding one Rabbi by raising him to great prominence, they forcibly exile another for his silence, and then put a price on the head of a third. Slated for execution, the Rabbi and his son go into hiding and then, running for their lives, they ultimately find refuge and respite in a hidden cave. Many miracles ensue! This is the first Episode in a three-part mini study-series linked to Lag B'Omer. Rabbi Mendel Kaplan