This story has provenance in many countries and traditions and is sometimes known as 'The difference between Heaven and Hell'. However my favourite telling is a Turkish version, with no reference to the afterlife, instead mentioning the people of Kayseri, who in Turkish folklore have a reputation for cleverness. The story's appeal is as a trickster tale and can be understood simply as such. However as I find in so many trickster tales, when you go beyond the 'trick' there are illuminations for those with eyes to see, not least in this tale; the value of co-operation. Understanding that wisdom often resides within a joke is a key to appreciating the power of humour as a teacher. Some people may say it is an example of lateral thinking; there is definitely a requirement to go beyond the square!
The Long Handled Spoon
There was once a Padishah who was determined to find an advisor to replace the aged man who had for so long given him wise counsel, but now looked forward to the long sleep. The old man suggested the Padishah fashion two spoons, with handles each 20 metres in length. He should keep one of the spoons hidden away while the other was to be set beside a large cauldron full of cooked food. This pot was to be placed in the middle of the square and he was to proclaim that whoever could feed himself with the long handled spoon would be justly rewarded.
News of the Padishah's challenge spread quickly through the land and many men came and attempted to feed themselves in the manner prescribed. There was a great deal of laughter at the methods tried, and none were successful. The feat was considered an impossibility. Finally a man stepped forward and asked if he could try. However, before the attempt he required two things from the Padishah; another spoon the same as the one beside the pot and permission to enlist the assistance of his brother. The Padishah agreed and the man left the square to fetch his brother. Later that afternoon he returned with his brother and the Padishah greeted them both with the two 20 metre long handled spoons.
A crowd had gathered in the square and watched in awe as each man took a spoon then dipped it into the steaming cauldron. They then walked 10 paces away from each other, slowly turned around, lifted their spoons and then proceeded to feed each other.
A great cheer arose from the crowd and the Padishah and the old adviser knew a replacement had been found. When the Padishah asked where the men were from they replied, 'Kayseri, of course.'
'Of course,' agreed the Padishah.
Source: Archive of Turkish Oral Narrative (U-W ATON) located in the Southwest Collection/Special Collections Library at Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas Copyright © 2008-2009.
Padishah's Challenge, mixed media on canvas, 60 x 60 cm by Roman W. Schatz
