It happened once upon a time that Mullah Nasruddin was urgently summoned to the Governor’s place.

“Mullah,” said the Governor, “an arrogant philosopher has come, and insists on challenging the whole province to a contest of minds. Do you think you can defeat him?”

Nasruddin stroked his beard. “Without doubt, your excellency,” he replied.

“Very good,” said the Governor. “If you do so, you will be richly rewarded. And surely,” he added grimly, “I do not need to tell you what will happen if you do not.”

The philosopher was sent for. When he entered the throne room and saw Nasruddin’s turban, he gave a wolfish grin. “Mullah,” he said, coming forward energetically, “it is always a pleasure to trip up a religious man. Mullah, you must admit your defeat unless you immediately tell me where God lives.”

Nasruddin bowed, and said, “And you must admit your defeat unless you tell me where He does NOT live.”