Thompson D1318.2.1 — Laughing fish reveals unjust judgment

Laughing fish reveals unjust judgment. A severe judgment is rendered for a small offence. As the convicted man is being led away, a dead (dried) fish is heard to laugh. The fish reveals that he has laughed at the foolishness of the judge who, while he punishes minor offences severely, is unable to see the capital crimes in his own household. (Cf. D1281.) *Bolte Reise der Söhne Giaffers 216.—India: Thompson-Balys, *Penzer I 46ff., VII 254, IX 142.—Cf. Child I 241, II 501b, IV 452a, V 288b.