The Herdsman and the Lost Bull
Story Summary
In this very short moral story, a herdsman vows to sacrifice a lamb to the forest deities if he discovers the thief of his lost Bull-calf. When he finds a Lion devouring the Calf, panic sets in, leading him to wish for a full-grown Bull instead, illustrating the theme of moral-based storytelling about the consequences of one's vows and the instinct for self-preservation. This inspirational short story serves as a quick read with a valuable lesson about facing fears and the weight of promises.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
The story illustrates that people often make vows in desperation, but when faced with true danger, their priorities shift dramatically.
Historical Context
This story reflects themes found in ancient fables and folklore, often attributed to Aesop, a Greek storyteller known for imparting moral lessons through animal characters and human-like dilemmas. The narrative encapsulates the human tendency to negotiate with the divine in times of crisis, drawing on cultural beliefs in the protective powers of deities such as Hermes and Pan, who were revered in ancient Greek religion for their roles as guardians of nature and the pastoral world. This tale also illustrates the irony of human desires and fears, a common motif in ancient storytelling that highlights the unpredictable nature of fate and fortune.
Our Editors Opinion
This fable highlights the human tendency to prioritize self-preservation over promises made in times of desperation. In modern life, one might see a parallel in a corporate employee who, after vowing to take ethical action if they could secure a promotion, compromises their values when faced with the threat of job loss or intense competition. In a real-life scenario, an employee may initially pledge to report unethical practices within the company but chooses to remain silent when they realize that whistleblowing could jeopardize their job security.
You May Also Like
The Doe and the Lion
In "The Doe and the Lion," a doe fleeing hunters discovers a life-changing truth as she seeks refuge in a lion's cave, only to be attacked and killed by the very beast she thought would save her. This poignant tale serves as a cautionary reminder for young readers that in avoiding one danger, one must be wary of falling into a greater peril. Through folklore and moral stories like this, we learn valuable lessons for personal growth and the importance of careful decision-making in life.
The Stag in the Ox-Stall
In this short story with moral, a Stag, chased by hounds, hides among oxen in a shed, believing he has found safety. Despite warnings from the Ox about the master’s keen observation, the Stag’s overconfidence leads to his capture when the master discovers him. This animal story with moral teaches the lesson that trusting in false security can lead to one's downfall, emphasizing the importance of being aware of real dangers for personal growth.
The Piglet the Sheep and the Goat
In "The Piglet the Sheep and the Goat," a young pig confined with a goat and a sheep reacts violently when the shepherd attempts to capture him, highlighting a crucial distinction in their fates. While the goat and sheep criticize his cries, he explains that they are only sheared for wool or milk, whereas he faces the threat of losing his life. This educational moral story imparts valuable lessons about understanding different experiences and the inherent value of life, making it a wisdom-packed tale within folklore and moral stories.
Other names for this story
The Lost Calf, The Herdsman's Dilemma, The Thief in the Forest, A Vow to the Guardians, The Bull and the Lion, The Quest for the Calf, A Herdsman's Sacrifice, The Stolen Bull Mystery
Did You Know?
This fable highlights the theme of human nature's tendency to prioritize self-preservation over promises made in desperation, illustrating how fear can quickly alter one's intentions and values when faced with a real threat.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.