[Avodah] Midrashim, Elu VeElu, and History

[David Riceman]

Harvey Benton wrote:
> 1. The concept of Elu VeElu Divrei Elokim Chaim is well known.  My question is how does it relate to historical (non-Halachic) Chazals's such as Midrashim, Gemmoras and Zohar's.  If competing Chazals present a historical description of events in different, non compatible ways, how do we then hold from Elu VeElu? 
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> For instance Avraham coming with many men (gem. of Eliezer) v. Eliezer alone. Or which exact species was eaten in Gan Eden (Etrog, wheat, grape, etc.,).  Many such examples exist.  (Note: The gemmara (Shabbas 63b) does not say Elu VeElu Divrei Elokim Emes.)
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For an extreme position see Michtav Me"Eliyahu III pp. 353-354.

David Riceman