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Allegory of the long spoons

A fresco showing heaven above, and hell below, Vank Cathedral, Iran
Four young men reenact the allegory

The allegory of the long spoons is a parable that shows the difference between heaven and hell by means of people forced to eat with long spoons. It is attributed to Rabbi Haim of Romshishok, as well as other sources.[1]

The allegory can be summarized as follows:

In each location, the inhabitants are given access to food, but the utensils are too unwieldy to serve oneself with. In hell, the people cannot cooperate, and consequently starve. In heaven, the diners feed one another across the table and are sated.

The story can encourage people to be kind to each other. There are various interpretations of the fable including its use in sermons and in advice to lonely people.

  1. ^ "Famous spiritual story varies among faiths and cultures, but carries the same message". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved 22 October 2014.