Bava Batra 149: A Convert, a Slave, Rava, and a Man on His Deathbed

Talking Talmud - A podcast by Yardaena Osband & Anne Gordon

The case of a person on his deathbed who admits to owing money -- but maybe he doesn't really! Adding the complications -- the case of a non-Jew who converts to Judaism, and fathers a child who is born after the conversion, but whose conception had taken place prior to the conversion. Which may mean that the parenting link is not present from a halakhic consideration. Can he make a gift to one who is not eligible for inheritance? Apparently not. Plus, a case of money left in the possession of Rava, where Rava takes an avid interest in keeping hold of that money. Also, a discussion of why one would give away all his possessions on his deathbed (or hold on enough to sustain himself, in the case of recovery). What if the possessions are all given to a slave? What about when the person on his deathbed keeps back a little? Plus, how are movable objects factored in? Also, a careful reading of the mishnah is necessary to make sure its details are implemented.