Eiruvin 29a, b

Eiruvin 29a and b furthers the rabbis conversation about which foods and drinks can be used to create an eiruv; how much of these foods and drinks can be used to create an eiruv.

At the start of 29a, we learn about beer and water.  It seems that beer may be simply coloured water, or it may be a different substance from water altogether because of the alcohol content.  A note teaches that water in a mikvah can be considered 'kosher' as long as the colour has not been affected after adding a given amount of another substance (like beer)..  

One note: a "fine cup" refers to "a cup of blessing".
Another note: "...it is common for people to drink a cup of beer in the morning and a cup of beer in the evening, and they rely on them as their meals, as beer is satisfying in such quantities."
And yet another pearl: dates are considered to be superior to dried figs.

To my delight, Rabbi Abaye shares more of his mother's (foster mother or nanny's) wisdom.  Actually written in the Talmud is: "Mother told me: These roasted grains are good for the heart and drive away thoughts [(worries)]".  And immediately after, "Mother told me... one who suffers from weakness of the heart should bring the meat of the right thigh of a ram, and bring the dung of grazing cattle from Nisan [the month], and if there is no cattle dung he should bring willow twigs, and roast and eat and drink afterward diluted wine."

Abruptly, the rabbis continue with an on-topic discussion -- and we learn that Persians ate meat as a main dish!  It seems that the standard meal included eat only as a side dish.  It is always wonderful to be reminded that what we consider "traditional" might be, in fact, a relatively new cultural norm.

So none of what I commented on is the point of the daf.  However, this is the wisdom that captures my imagination.  How awesome to have a window into the daily life; the day-to-day thoughts of great thinkers who are, in fact, distant 'cousins'.  I am reminded that the Talmud is truly a gift - on so many levels.