A sign of mourning is to rend the garments ; see Oesterley and Box, p. 332.
See the preceding paragraph.
Buchler, Der galilaische 'Am ha'ares, pp. 134 ff., explains that it is not an ordinary meal that is here referred to, but that of a company of Haberim (see Glossary, s.v.).
Which will hold the preliminary cup of wine.
Because he will touch food with both hands.
This is the wine before the meal, the other was only introductory.
Because it states "Wine is set for them and each says the benediction for himself." But if reclining is not necessary for wine, let one say it for all!
They have not yet formed themselves into one party.
Because it states "Wine is brought to them and...one may say it for all." But if reclining is not beneficial with wine, let each say it for himself !
If one said the benediction for all during the meal, some of the diners may not be able to respond "Amen," since there is food in their month; cf. fol. 51 a, p. 325.
Rab was afraid that he was told to wash because his hands were dirty. He must have been quite a youth when this happened ; hence his nervousness.
See p. 86 n. 8.
M.: Another version: Rabbah b. Jeremiah.
"The Egyptians take great delight in perfumes; and often fumigate their apartments"; Lane, p. 142. But perfumes do not seem to have been used after a meal, although the guest before departing was perfumed; ibid. p. 208. Cf. T. A. I. p. 690 n. 281, III. p. 63.
M.: Rabbah.
Who lived in princely style.
M.: Joseph.
See p. 74 n 2.