Hananiah ben Akavia was a rabbi of the second century (fourth generation of tannaim).
Despite his prominence, both parts of his name are uncertain: "Hananiah" and "Hanina" for the former, and "Akabia" and "Akiba" for the latter, appearing promiscuously in connection with one and the same halakhah.
[3] Thus, he is easily confused with Haninah ben Ahi R. Joshua, who is also cited without his patronymic.
If these belong to the age of Rabbis Meir, Jose, and Shimon, Hananiah ben Akavia is meant; if they are of a former generation, R. Joshua's nephew is intended.
[7] Hananiah was fearless in the expression of his opinions, and also opposed those of the leaders of academies, the "nasi" and his deputy.