alex Lebovits asked:
The Gem. brings a proof that Talmud Torah is greater because Yaakov didn't get punished for the years he was learning. Perhaps they are equal?! And when two mitzvohs are equal then a person has a right to choose whichever he wants. (similar to a case where a mother has no obligation to be mechabed the father; and both ask for a glass of water; the son may choose to serve whoever he wants first.)
Kol Tuv
alex Lebovits, toronto, canada
The Kollel replies:
Yakov already began Kibud Av by leaving for Charan and he wouldn't be allowed to "drop it" and start a new Mitzvah unless the second one was greater.
Mordecai Kornfeld