A Curious Choice
Akbar asked Birbal to find the wisest fool in the city. The courtiers were puzzled by the strange request.
Birbal’s Selection
He brought a man who had spent all his wealth on building a palace—but never lived in it. “He worked all his life for others to enjoy,” Birbal explained.
Akbar’s Laughter
“He is a fool in the eyes of the world,” said Birbal, “but wise in showing the truth—that nothing here is ours.”
Lesson to Be Learned
The world may consider one foolish for giving up worldly gain, but those who live for others and remember life’s impermanence are truly wise. The soul is eternal; worldly possessions come and go.
