The Weaver and His Magical Loom – A Turkish Fairy Tale of Wonders and Wisdom

Short Description: A Turkish fairy tale about a poor weaver who was able to change his life thanks to a magical loom but faced the greed of those around him. A story of wisdom and gratitude.

In a small village lived a poor weaver named Mehmet. He worked day and night to provide for his family, but his earnings barely covered bread. The old loom, which still belonged to his father, often broke down, and Mehmet had to repair it instead of weaving fabrics.

One day, while returning from the forest with firewood, he met an old man with a long white beard. "Why do you look so tired, my son?" the old man asked. Mehmet told him about his poverty and how the old loom was hindering his work.

The old man smiled and said, "You are a good and diligent person. For your honesty and hard work, I want to help you." He took out a small loom from his bag that shone like the sun. "This loom is magical. Whatever you wish to weave, it will do. But remember: use it wisely and do not let greed cloud your heart."

Mehmet took the loom and thanked the old man. Upon returning home, he decided to test it. "I want to weave the softest carpet," he said. The loom began to hum, and in an instant, a carpet appeared before him, sparkling like stars. Mehmet happily took the carpet to the market and sold it for a high price.

From that day on, Mehmet's life changed. He wove beautiful fabrics that the villagers dreamed of. His family no longer knew poverty, and he generously shared his earnings with those in need. However, the fame of the magical loom reached even the ruler.

The ruler summoned Mehmet to the court and demanded to see the loom. Upon seeing it, the ruler decided that such a thing should belong to him. "Give me this loom," he ordered. "I know better how to use it."

Mehmet did not want to give up the loom but feared the ruler's wrath. Then he devised a trick. "Great ruler, this loom works only for those who work honestly and with a good heart. If you want to test its power, try weaving something yourself."

The ruler sat at the loom and tried to weave a golden fabric, but the loom made no sound. The ruler began to get angry: "Why isn't it working?" Mehmet calmly replied, "The loom listens only to those who act with good intentions. It will not obey someone who wants to use it for greed."

Realizing that he would not get the magical loom, the ruler allowed Mehmet to leave. Mehmet returned to his village and continued to weave for his family and the people who truly needed help. His work became an example for everyone: only kindness and honesty make a person truly rich.

Moral of the Story: The story teaches that wealth and happiness come to those who work honestly and share their success with others. Greed and selfishness destroy even the greatest opportunities.

Questions about the Story:

• Why did the old man decide to give the magical loom to Mehmet?
• How did Mehmet use the loom for the benefit of others?
• Why didn't the loom work for the ruler?