Abba the Surgeon is a figure mentioned in the Talmud as an example of genuine Jewish piety and benevolence (Ta'anit, 21b et seq.) Although dependent upon his earnings, he was so unselfish and considerate that, in order to avoid embarrassing the poor among his patients, he would never accept pay directly from any one, but instead attached to a certain part of his house a box in which each might place what he pleased. Abba's confidence in humanity was once tested by two young disciples in a remarkable manner.