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Greater is one who derives benefit from his own labor than one who fears Heaven - Brochos 8a
http://kollelbokerbeachwood.com/articles/86/1/Greater-is-one-who-derives-benefit-from-his-own-labor-than-one-who-fears-Heaven---Brochos-8a/Page1.html
Avrohom Adler

 
By Avrohom Adler
Published on 01/16/2008
 
What is the explanation of this seemingly perplexing Gemora?

(Click below, where it says "click here for the rest of the article" for a written discussion on this matter, plus the audio of the shiur.)

Explanations


The Gemora states: Rabbi Chiya bar Ammi said in the name of Ulla: Greater is one who derives benefit from his own labor, than one who fears Heaven. This is proven from the fact that it is written in regard to one who fears Heaven [Tehillim 112:1]: Praiseworthy is the man who fears Hashem. However, in respect to one who derives benefit from his own labor, it is written [ibid. 128:2]: When you consume the labor of your own hands you are praiseworthy, and it is well with you. The double expression implies that he is praiseworthy in this world and it will be well with him in the World to Come. However, in regard to one who fears Heaven, the extra expression of "and it is well with you" is not written.  what is the meaning of this Gemora?