A Question of Beauty
Akbar once asked, “What is the greatest ornament a person can wear?” Ministers suggested diamonds, pearls, and silks.
Birbal’s Golden Reply
Birbal responded, “The greatest ornament is humility. It enhances all virtues.” The emperor, pleased, said, “Indeed! A proud man, though richly dressed, appears ugly. But a humble man glows even in rags.”
True Glory Recognized
Akbar declared, “Let my court never forget this truth—humility makes one noble.”
Lesson to Be Learned
Pride is the root of downfall, while humility invites divine mercy. Lord Caitanya Mahāprabhu instructed: tṛṇād api sunīcena—one should be humbler than a blade of grass. In such a state, the soul becomes fit to chant the holy name purely.
