Several centuries ago, the Pope decreed that all the Jews had to convert to Catholicism or leave Italy. There was a huge outcry from the Jewish community, so the Pope offered a deal: he'd have a religious debate with the leader of the Jewish community. If the Jews won, they could stay in Italy; if the Pope won, they'd have to convert or leave.
The Jewish people met and picked an aged and wise rabbi to represent them in the debate. However, as the Rabbi spoke no Italian, and the Pope spoke no Yiddish, they agreed that it would be a 'silent' debate.
On the chosen day the Pope and Rabbi sat opposite each other.
The Pope raised his hand and showed three fingers. The Rabbi looked back and raised one finger.
Next, the Pope waved his finger around his head.
The rabbi pointed to the ground where he sat.
The Pope brought out a communion wafer and a chalice of wine. The Rabbi pulled out an apple.
With that, the Pope stood up and declared himself beaten and said that the Rabbi was too clever. The Jews could stay in Italy.
Later the Cardinals met with the Pope and asked him what had happened.
The Pope said, "First I held up three fingers to represent the Trinity. He responded by holding up a single finger to remind me there is still only one God common to both our faiths.
Then, I waved my finger around my head to show him that God was all around us. The Rabbi responded by pointing to the ground to show that God was also right here with us.
I pulled out the wine and host to show that through the perfect sacrifice Jesus has atoned for our sins, but the Rabbi pulled out an apple to remind me of the original sin. He bested me at every move and I could not continue."
Meanwhile, the Jewish community gathered to ask the rabbi how he'd won.
"I haven't a clue," said the rabbi. "First, he told me that we had three days to get out of Italy, so I gave him the finger.
Then he tells me that the whole country would be cleared of Jews but I told him emphatically that we were staying right here."
"And then what?" asked a woman.
"Who knows?" said the rabbi. "He took out his lunch, so I took out mine.
author unknown
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Haven't heard that one for a long time.
Good to hear it again.
Great!! Just shows there's always two sides to a story. Thanks for the chuckle.
Hannah, my Philly phriend, that was too phunny!
Good evening, Hannah. I have not heard that one. Funny...
Hannah: As the Nice Catholic Girl from Cleveland that I am... that was absolutely hilarious. Now, with this smile on my face, it feels like the perfect time to go sleepy-pie. Thanks so much. By the way... do you mind if I borrow the joke ? I actually have a blog titled Nice Catholic Girl from Cleveland, and I'll like to tell your joke on it. "suggested"
Thanks for the smile and giggle. If it is good enough for Karen Anne, it's good enough for me =)
Jon..Thanks for the thumbs up!
Jeff..It cracked me up ..tried to post it earlier but could not ..glad you liked it !!
Kevin..Laughter is the best medicine!
Michael.. I never heard it either ..sure made me laugh out loud
Have a great day
HelpfulHannah
Karen Anne..I would be honored! You certainly may use it !
Paul.. I am glad ..wasn't sure about this one ...z;0)
Helpfulhannah
Haven't heard this one before. Did not expect that ending either. Too funny!! And very timely to the Easter holiday.
Terry..Passover and Easter are always intertwined..I thought it would be timely for both holidays..thank you..:0)
HelpfulHannah
Some Real humor comes from the lack of clear communication, not matter how smart you are you still have to read the signs.
That was good, I didn't see it comming. Thanks for sharing. I will be sharing this with some friends as well.
Clever little chuckler. Thanks and have a great long weekend.
Hannah-Through some interesting family dynamic I was exposed too many different religions growing up which makes this story believably funny! Thanks.
Hi HaNNAH,