The Tale of Bahlool: Flying to the Heavens

Once, Bahlul visited Harun al-Rashid’s palace. One of the courtiers, intending to mock him, said, “What is this strange spectacle you’ve created?”

Bahlul shrugged indifferently and replied, “Sir, what are you talking about?”

The man continued, “Why have you made yourself a laughingstock, wandering barefoot in the streets and riding a reed stick like a child? By doing this, you’ve turned yourself into a joke for the children.”

Without the slightest sign of annoyance, Bahlul calmly asked, “And may I ask, who are you?”

The man, surprised, replied, “It’s odd that you don’t recognize me. Don’t you know I am one of the high-ranking officials of the government?”

Bahlul smiled and asked, “You hold a position with Harun al-Rashid, but do you also hold a rank before God?”

The man, sensing an opportunity to boast, immediately responded, “Before God, I am so esteemed that every night I ascend to the heavens. After spending hours wandering and sightseeing there, I return to the earth.”

Bahlul raised his eyebrows and asked, “Really? While you’re touring the heavens, has it ever happened that something soft touched your face?”

Without thinking, the man answered, “Yes, many times something soft has brushed my face.”

He paused, then added thoughtfully, “I think it must be the wings of angels touching my face.”

Bahlul shook his head and, with a sly smile, replied, “By your honor, that soft thing was the tail of my donkey.”

The entire gathering burst into laughter, marveling at Bahlul’s wit and quick thinking.