The Royal Challenge
One day, Emperor Akbar said to Birbal, “Bring me a mute person and make him speak. If you succeed, I shall reward you handsomely.”
Birbal’s Inspired Strategy
The next day, Birbal brought a villager known for being extremely quiet and shy. In the court, Birbal suddenly screamed, “Thief! Thief! He has stolen from the king!” Alarmed, the man protested loudly, “I have done nothing wrong!”
Victory Through Wit
Akbar laughed heartily. “Indeed, you made the mute speak. Take your reward!” Birbal bowed, “Anyone will speak when faced with danger. Even the silent soul cries out when threatened.”
Lesson to Be Learned
Material nature forces the soul to cry out in distress, but only in surrender to Kṛṣṇa can one find real shelter. As Lord Kṛṣṇa says, duḥkhālayam aśāśvatam—this world is full of suffering, but those who seek refuge in Him attain peace.
