Rashbam (102 a 5 lines from the bottom) says the tosefta in berochus proves that we make kidush before bentching. Tosfos on the top of next daf quotes the tosefta berochas 5:3 which he says fits in with bentching first. How does the Rashbam understand this tosefta?
b morris, london england
Dear b morris,
We can suggest as follows: Rashbam understands the Tosefta that the first thing to be done is to make Kiddush - benching is not even mentioned. Also the fact that the guests went to the Beis Midrash is mentioned because leaving the house and learning was a sufficient Hefsek from the first meal and benching first is not necessary.
All the best
R. Weiner