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Mulla Nasruddin Khodja, also known as Nasreddin Hodja, is a legendary figure in Islamic folklore, celebrated across Turkey, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Central Asia. Often portrayed as a "wise fool," He uses humor and satire to challenge social norms and share timeless moral lessons. Over the centuries, His tales have spread throughout the Middle East, South Asia, and Central Asia. In recognition of His enduring influence, UNESCO declared 1996 and 1997 as “The International Year of Nasruddin.” We are honored to present excerpts from ‘Tiny Tales of Nasruddin’ by Laura Gibbs. Each brief tale offers a playful look at human nature, challenging expectations and revealing unexpected truths. Some stories between 20 and 29 20. BITING YOUR OWN EAR “A wife dragged her husband into Nasruddin’s courtroom. ‘He bit my ear!’ she shouted. ‘You bit your own ear!’ the husband shouted back at her. ‘Impossible!’ the wife replied. ‘Nobody can bite their own ear.’ Nasruddin called for a recess and went into His chambers. He tried to bite His own ear, but only succeeded in falling down and bruising His forehead. Nasruddin returned to the courtroom. ‘Check the wife: does she have bruises on her forehead?’ There were no bruises. ‘I therefore conclude the wife did not bite her own ear,’ said Nasruddin. ‘The husband is guilty as charged.’”23. NASRUDDIN TAKES SIDES “Two men who were quarreling came to Nasruddin. ‘Please help us, Nasruddin!’ said the first man. ‘We need You to judge between us!’ said the second man. The first man presented his case, and when he was done, Nasruddin exclaimed, ‘You’re right!’ The second man shouted, ‘You haven’t even listened to my side of the story!’ That man then presented his case and when he was done, Nasruddin exclaimed again, ‘You’re right!’ Nasruddin’s wife, who had listened to the whole thing, remarked, ‘They can’t both be right.’ Nasruddin looked at His wife and exclaimed with a smile, ‘You’re right too!’”
