What Deceives Us

The King’s Question

Is it not surprising that even an intelligent or wise person can be deceived? This was the question raised by a certain king. He searched for a convincing answer, but to no avail. Neither his ministers nor his courtiers could satisfy his curiosity.

The Challenge Issued

The question consumed the king so much that he announced a reward: whoever could provide him with a convincing answer would be granted a part of his kingdom.

The Young Man’s Proposal

Days passed until a young man approached him with confidence. “I am from the neighboring kingdom of Suryagarh,” he revealed. “I know that the king of Suryagarh, Suryasen, is your enemy. I, too, see him as my enemy because he unjustly killed my father. Tomorrow, Suryasen will be visiting the forest alone to fulfill a vow to the goddess of the tribals. If you come alone and in disguise, we can capture him together.”

The Trap

The king was delighted by this plan. As arranged, he arrived at a designated spot in the forest, only to be ambushed and captured by four strong men.

The Revelation

“I’m deceived!” the king shouted in frustration.

The young man appeared before him and said, “My lord, do you realize how you have been deceived? It is the deception, ambition, or greed within ourselves that leads us to be deceived.”

The King’s Decision

True to his word, the king rewarded the young man with a part of his kingdom for the lesson learned.