On 11a, the Gemora lists for whom it is preferrable to work. Next to last on the list is Talmide Chochamim. How can this be when we learn elsewhere that it is better to serve Talmide Chochamim than to learn from them? Also, last on the list are orphans. Wouldn't this cause more anguish to orphans by discouraging people from working for them?
Thanks again. Kol Tuv.
Jeff Schwartz
The Gemara is not necessarily discussing whom to work for (or not to work for), but rather, whom not to anger (so that one not be "under" the wrath of that person). It is certainly of great importance to serve Talmidei Chachamim, as the Gemara (Berachos 7b) which you cited states. However, our Gemara implies a warning -- one must be very careful to properly honor and respect the Talmid Chacham whom he is serving. Similarly, the Gemara is cautioning a person to be very sensitive with the feelings of an orphan or widow, lest they become upset and arouse Hash-m's vengence to punish whoever upset them.
All the best,
Yisrael Shaw