Bahlool’s Wit: The Caliph’s Greater Need

One day, Harun al-Rashid gave Bahlool a sum of money to distribute among the poor and needy. Bahlool took the money but, after a few moments, returned it to the Caliph himself.

Surprised, Harun asked for an explanation.

Bahlool replied, “I thought long and hard, and I couldn’t find anyone needier or poorer than you. That is why I returned the money to you. I see your officers and agents standing in shops, collecting taxes, duties, and levies from the people with the lash, only to fill your treasury. This made me realize that your need is greater than anyone else’s. So, I returned the money to you.”