The Honest Farmer and the King's Reward

A Simple Life

In a peaceful village surrounded by vast green fields and flowing rivers, there lived a humble farmer named Ibrahim. He was known for his honesty, hard work, and devotion to Allah. Though he had little wealth, he was content with what he had and always thanked Allah for His blessings.

Ibrahim had a small farm where he grew wheat and vegetables. Every morning, he would wake up before Fajr prayer, pray at the mosque, and then start his work. His neighbors admired him because he never cheated or used dishonest ways to earn money.

One day, as Ibrahim was digging near his field, his shovel hit something hard. Curious, he dug deeper and discovered a large clay pot filled with gold coins. His hands trembled as he lifted it.

“SubhanAllah!” he whispered. “What a great treasure!”

A Test of Honesty

Ibrahim stared at the gold coins, realizing that he could become rich overnight. He could buy more land, build a grand house, and live comfortably for the rest of his life.

But then he thought, “This is not my money. It belongs to someone else. How can I take something that is not mine?”

His heart told him to return the treasure. So, he covered the pot and carried it to the village chief.

Ibrahim's sincerity astonished the chief. “You could have kept it, but you chose to return it. You are truly a righteous man!”

However, no one in the village knew who the gold belonged to. After discussing the matter, they decided that the treasure must be taken to the Sultan, who ruled the land with justice.

The Journey to the Palace

In preparation for the lengthy journey to the city, where the Sultan's palace stood, Ibrahim made preparations. His neighbors admired his honesty and gave him food and supplies for the trip.

After three days of travel, he reached the magnificent palace. Guards in golden armor stood at the entrance, and fountains sparkled under the sun.

A minister asked, “What brings you here, farmer?”

Ibrahim humbly replied, “I found a pot of gold in my land and wish to return it to the rightful owner.”

The minister was astonished. “A poor farmer returning gold? This is rare indeed!”

He led Ibrahim to the Sultan’s court.

The Sultan’s Judgment

Sultan Mahmud, known for his fairness, listened carefully as Ibrahim explained how he found the treasure.

The Sultan smiled. “Most men would have kept this gold for themselves. Why did you not do the same?”

Ibrahim replied, “Because Allah sees all things. I would rather earn an honest living than take what is not mine.”

The court fell silent. Ministers and nobles looked at Ibrahim with admiration.

The Sultan then said, “We have no record of any lost treasure. By law, if no one claims it, the finder may keep it.”

Ibrahim was surprised. “But my Sultan, it does not feel right. I did nothing to earn this.”

The Sultan grinned. “Indeed, your honesty is a greater treasure than gold. Tell me, what do you desire?”

Ibrahim thought for a moment and said, “I only wish for Allah’s blessings and the chance to continue my work honestly.”

The Sultan clapped his hands and declared, “Then let honesty be rewarded! I grant you a piece of royal land, where you may farm freely. And this gold shall be used to help the poor of your village.”

Honesty as a Legacy Ibrahim returned home, not as a wealthy man, but as a respected hero. He used the land given by the Sultan to grow crops and share his harvest with those in need.

People from other villages came to learn from him as his story spread widely. Years later, when Ibrahim passed away, his children continued his legacy of honesty and kindness.

As a result, he was remembered not for finding gold but for choosing integrity over wealth. Moral of the Story:

Honesty is more valuable than gold.

Allah blesses those who choose righteousness.

True wealth is found in integrity, not material riches.