The King and the Man – Story No. 2611
A king ruled over a small state. He had a deep passion for hunting and often went out into the forests with his soldiers to enjoy the sport. One day, while traveling with his entourage, he noticed a man cutting wood near the roadside. Close by, a donkey was tied, and there was a tiny hut not far from him. The king was astonished to see how small the man’s hut was—it was barely big enough to accommodate a single person lying down.
The king continued on for a while, but suddenly, a strong windstorm blew in, and rain began pouring heavily. The king’s soldiers immediately advised him to return to the palace for safety. However, the king, determined and curious, declared that he would stay the night in the man’s humble hut. His soldiers were shocked. One of them said, “Your Majesty, that hut is barely enough for one person. Please come back with us to your palace.” But the king insisted. “You all go back now and return early tomorrow morning. I wish to see how this poor man lives his life.”
Once the soldiers left, the king arrived at the hut. He was greeted warmly by the man, who was cheerful and hospitable despite his meager means. The man offered the king a cup of warm milk, fresh from his pet goat. Then he gave him a simple, dry flatbread accompanied by some onions. The king, though unused to such humble fare, managed to eat it politely.
Next, the man arranged for the king to sleep. The hut had only one bed, so the man decided to sleep outside on the grass next to his donkey, allowing the king to use the bed. That night, the king could not sleep well. He was accustomed to the soft, luxurious bedding of his palace, and the rough, simple surroundings kept him awake.
The following morning, the king asked the man, “Why don’t you live in the city?” The man humbly replied, “Your Majesty, I do not have enough money to pay for city rent. That is why I am compelled to live here.”
Hearing this, the king’s heart sank with sorrow. The man’s life of simplicity and struggle moved him deeply. Without delay, the king commanded that one of the rooms in his palace be given to the man, completely free of cost. Additionally, he ordered a monthly stipend from the royal treasury to be provided to ensure the man could live comfortably without financial stress.
The king had gone to the woods seeking adventure, but instead, he discovered a profound lesson in humility, gratitude, and compassion. The poor man, living with dignity despite poverty, had taught the king a valuable truth: wealth and comfort alone do not define a worthy life, and generosity and kindness can transform someone’s fate. The king felt a deep sense of satisfaction, knowing he could now use his wealth and power to make a tangible difference in another person’s life.
From that day onward, the man lived in the palace with security and respect, yet he retained his humble and cheerful nature. He continued to care for his goat and simple routines, never letting prosperity change his character. The king, inspired by this experience, became more attentive to the lives of ordinary people, realizing that true leadership involves compassion and support for those who struggle quietly.
Thus, the encounter between a king and a humble man, one born of curiosity and courage, led to a lasting change in both their lives—a story of kindness, empathy, and the transformative power of generosity.
About the Creator
Sudais Zakwan
Sudais Zakwan – Storyteller of Emotions
Sudais Zakwan is a passionate story writer known for crafting emotionally rich and thought-provoking stories that resonate with readers of all ages. With a unique voice and creative flair.
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