Bahlool and the Governor of Kufa

Ishaq ibn Muhammad ibn Sabah was the governor of Kufa. His wife gave birth to a daughter, and the governor became deeply sorrowful, refusing to eat or drink. When Bahlul heard of this, he went to see him and asked, “O governor, why are you in such distress?”

The governor replied, “I had hoped for a male child, but unfortunately, my wife has given birth to a daughter.”

Bahlul responded, “Would you have preferred, instead of this beautiful, healthy, and perfect daughter, that God had given you a mad son like me?”

The governor, unable to contain himself, burst into laughter and thanked God for His blessings. He then requested food and drink and allowed people to come to him to offer their congratulations.