A Strange Request
A villager came to court crying, “O Emperor, I have been wronged, but I do not want justice!” Everyone was astonished.
Birbal’s Inquiry
Birbal asked gently, “Why don’t you want justice?” The man replied, “Because if justice is delayed and given only when I’m broken, it will taste bitter. I want mercy, not punishment.”
Akbar’s Wisdom
Akbar reflected, “He speaks wisely. Sometimes justice must bend to mercy, especially for the innocent and helpless.”
Lesson to Be Learned
Kṛṣṇa is both just and merciful. He gives each soul their due karma, but out of love, He also forgives and uplifts. The greatest hope for a devotee is the Lord’s karuṇā, His boundless mercy, which flows even to the most fallen.
