A certain Rabbi was adored by the community; everyone was enchanted by what he said.
Except for Isaac, who never missed an opportunity to contradict the Rabbi’s interpretations and point out faults in his teachings.
The others were annoyed by Isaac, but could do nothing about it.
One day, Isaac died. During the funeral, the community noticed that the Rabbi was deeply upset.
– Why are you so sad? – someone commented. – He was always criticizing everything you said!
– I am not upset for my friend who is now in heaven – replied the Rabbi – I am upset for my own self. While everyone revered me, he challenged me, and I was obliged to improve.
Now he has gone, I am afraid I shall stop growing.