The Cock and the Jewel
Story Summary
In "The Cock and the Jewel," a cock, while searching for food, stumbles upon a precious jewel but declares it worthless compared to a simple grain of barley. This engaging moral tale emphasizes that practical needs surpass material wealth, illustrating a key lesson found in many creative moral stories. Through this animal story with moral, readers are reminded that true value lies in fulfilling basic necessities rather than chasing after superficial riches.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
Value lies in utility rather than in material worth; what is precious to one may be worthless to another.
Historical Context
This fable, attributed to Aesop, reflects themes of practicality versus greed, emphasizing the value of simple, tangible needs over wealth and luxury. The story has been retold in various cultures, often highlighting the wisdom of prioritizing what is truly useful over superficial riches, a common moral lesson in folklore that resonates across different societies. Aesop's Fables, originating in ancient Greece, have influenced literary traditions worldwide, serving as moral guides through their concise narratives.
Our Editors Opinion
This fable highlights the idea that practical value often outweighs material wealth, a lesson that resonates in modern life where many prioritize experiences and necessities over the allure of luxury. For instance, a person might choose to invest in a meaningful vacation with loved ones rather than spending money on expensive gadgets that offer fleeting satisfaction, reflecting the belief that true richness lies in what genuinely enhances our lives.
You May Also Like
The Huntsman and the Fisherman
In this short moral tale, a Huntsman and a Fisherman delight in exchanging their catches, finding joy in each other's bounty. However, a wise neighbor warns them that such frequent exchanges may diminish their enjoyment, suggesting they should abstain to fully appreciate their own pursuits. This story serves as a reminder that sometimes, enjoying what we have is more fulfilling than seeking constant variety.
The Ass the Cock and the Lion
In "The Ass the Cock and the Lion," a tale that embodies value-based moral stories, a Cock's loud crowing scares away a hungry Lion, instilling false confidence in the Ass. Believing he can confront the Lion, the Ass foolishly pursues him, only to be caught and killed. This short and sweet moral story teaches that misplaced bravery can lead to dangerous consequences, offering a valuable lesson in humility.
The Widow and Her Little Maidens
In this humorous tale from folklore, a cleanliness-obsessed widow wakes her two maidens at dawn, driving them to conspire against the rooster that crows at daybreak. However, their plan backfires when the widow begins to rouse them in the middle of the night, leading to even more trouble. This short moral story highlights the unintended consequences of seeking a quick solution, reminding readers that sometimes our actions can lead to greater challenges.
Other names for this story
The Rooster's Treasure, A Jewel's Worth, The Cock's Choice, The Gem and the Fowl, The Value of Simplicity, The Hen's Hunt, Barley over Bling, The Prized Stone
Did You Know?
This fable highlights the theme of valuing practicality over material wealth, as the cock prioritizes the immediate necessity of food for survival over the allure of a precious gem, illustrating the idea that true worth lies in usefulness rather than opulence.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.