One day, Mulla Nasruddin was boasting to a group of people about how immensely hospitable he was. One of them said, “Well then, will you take us all to your home and treat us to a meal?” Mulla agreed. When they reached his house, he told, “Wait out here so that I may let my wife know.” But Mulla’s wife said, “We don’t have any food. You must turn them away.” Mulla said, “But my reputation for hospitality is at stake here!” His wife said, “Then, go and hide upstairs, and if they start calling for you, I’ll tell them you’re not here.” So, Mulla did as she said. One of his guests said, “We saw Mulla go in, and we’ve been waiting here watching this door the whole time.” Mulla couldn’t help but open his window and retort, “You don’t know what you are talking about. I could have gone out the back door!” All his guests burst out laughing.
Hospitable Mulla
