A poor Arab man stood scratching at the ground, hoping that he could get something
to grow. Suddenly, the Angel Gabriel appeared before him.
"Allah has seen your oppression and heard your many prayers, Hassan. The All Compassionate
One will grant you anything you desire amidst the world of men. You can have a fine house,
many beautiful wives, riches that ascend to the heavens and a paradise of gardens."
Hassan hardly knows what to say. He falls down and praises God for this bounty.
However, Gabriel continues, "All these things you may take as your reward, but Allah
gives you one command: whatever you ask for and receive must be given in double
measure to the old Jew who lives down the road."
Hassan thinks for a moment and replies:
"Beat me half to death"
Now, you understand the Middle East.
metatron