The Farmers Wisdom

The Farmers Wisdom

A farmer was plowing his field when a hunting king approached him. The king stopped his horse and asked Brother! Do you have anything to eat The farmer humbly replied Whatever simple food I have you are welcome to it.

The farmer first offered the king cool water from an earthen pot helped him wash his hands and then served simple flatbreads with salt onions and sour buttermilk. The king had never tasted such food before and he enjoyed it immensely.

Before leaving the king said Brother visit me at my palace tomorrow at ten in the morning. I am very pleased with your hospitality. Ask for anything you desire and I will grant it.

The next day the farmer arrived at the kings palace and informed the guard about his visit. The guard told him to wait and went to inform the royal attendant. When the guard returned he asked the farmer What will you give me from your reward

The farmer replied Half of whatever I receive. The guard happily let him in.

Next the royal attendant asked the farmer the same question and the farmer promised him a quarter of his reward. The attendant then informed the treasurer about the farmers arrival. The treasurer hurried to the farmer and asked Wait a moment! I am the one who will prepare the reward; the king will only sign it. What will you give me

The farmer again promised a quarter of his reward.

When the farmer finally entered the royal court the king welcomed him warmly and asked Tell me what you desire. I will fulfill my promise.

The farmer thought If I ask for something nothing will be left for me. So without hesitation he said Your Majesty I request to be struck on the head with a hundred lashes.

The king was shocked. Is this a request Have you committed a crime that you should be punished Ask for something else.

The farmer insisted My king my request is fair. Please fulfill it.

The king though puzzled ordered the treasurer to write it down and get his signature. As soon as the document was signed the king commanded that the request be fulfilled.

The farmer then said First call the guard. I had promised him half of my reward. The guard was summoned and he received fifty lashes.

Then the farmer said Now call the royal attendant. He is to receive a quarter of the lashes. The attendant was summoned and given twentyfive lashes.

Finally the treasurer was called and given his promised twentyfive lashes.

Seeing this unfold in the royal court the king realized the deep corruption within his kingdom. He immediately ordered strict action against the guilty officials.

Impressed by the farmers wisdom the king rewarded him generously and sent him home with great honor.