A Silent Offense
A nobleman once entered court in plain clothes and was ignored by others. The next day, he arrived wearing an expensive robe, and everyone greeted him with honor.
Birbal’s Gesture
At the royal meal, Birbal poured soup on the nobleman’s robe. Shocked, the man asked, “Why did you do that?” Birbal replied, “Yesterday, they respected your robe—not you. Let the robe enjoy the meal.”
Akbar’s Approval
The court laughed, and the emperor said, “Let us value people, not their garments.”
Lesson to Be Learned
Respect based on appearance is shallow. Just as Kṛṣṇa sees the heart, not the dress, the devotee too honors sincerity, not external show. True worth lies in humility and inner character.
