Talmud Bavli
Talmud Bavli

Commentary for Avodah Zarah 37:10

ואמר רבא לעולם ליגריס איניש ואע"ג דמשכח ואע"ג דלא ידע מאי קאמר שנאמר (תהלים קיט, כ) גרסה נפשי לתאבה גרסה כתיב ולא כתיב טחנה

Rava also said: A person should always recite, even though he is liable to forget and even if he does not fully understand all the words which he says, as it is said, “My soul recites for desire of Your rules at all times” (Psalms 119:20). “Recites” is what Scripture says, it does not say “grinds.”

Daf Shevui to Avodah Zarah

“Recites” in rabbinic lingo refers to rote recitation of rabbinic dicta. “Grinds” refers to understanding them, and refining them to make sure they are correct. Rava exhibits his preference for the former, at least in terms of educational priority.
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