Levi divided all aggadists into two classes: those who can string pearls (i.e., cite fitting texts) but can not perforate them (i.e., penetrate the depths of Scripture), and those who can perforate but can not string them. Of himself, he said that he was skilled in both arts. Once, however, a clear misinterpretation of Levi's so provoked Abba bar Kahana that Abba called him "liar" and "fabricator." But it is authoritatively added that this happened once only. He and Abba were lifelong friends, and Abba showed his admiration for his colleague's exegesis by publicly kissing him.