One Fault Only

Prabhash, a wealthy merchant, had entrusted the education of his son to Somadev, a learned scholar. However, after a year had passed, Somadev sent a letter to Prabhash, requesting that he take his son back.

Curious about his son’s shortcomings, Prabhash met with the scholar and asked, “What is my son’s fault?” Somadev replied, “He has only one fault. Find it out yourself.” Determined, Prabhash took his son to a secluded spot and began questioning him.

“Have you neglected your studies?” he asked. “Not at all!” was his son’s enthusiastic reply. “Do you steal?” the father pressed further. “Never!” exclaimed the son. “Do you smoke?” Prabhash inquired next. “I don’t even know what smoking is!” the son said innocently.

Despite asking a dozen questions, Prabhash could not uncover any fault in his son. Frustrated, he returned to Somadev and asked, “What is that one fault you mentioned?” The scholar looked at him and replied, “He never speaks a truth!”