The Lion and the Hare
Story Summary
In this creative moral story, a Lion encounters a sleeping Hare and, tempted by the sight of a passing Hart, abandons his sure meal for a chance at a larger prize. After a futile chase, he returns only to find the Hare has escaped, realizing too late that he lost both opportunities. This meaningful story teaches that sometimes, in pursuit of greater gains, we risk losing what we already possess.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
The moral of the story is that one should not forsake what they have in pursuit of something better, as it may lead to losing both.
Historical Context
This fable is attributed to Aesop, a storyteller from ancient Greece, whose tales often convey moral lessons through animal characters. The story reflects themes of greed and the consequences of forsaking immediate rewards for uncertain gains, a common motif in various cultures' folklore, including similar tales in the Panchatantra from India and medieval European adaptations. Aesop's fables have influenced literature and moral education across centuries, emphasizing the importance of prudence and the folly of overreaching ambition.
Our Editors Opinion
This fable highlights the importance of valuing what we already possess instead of risking it all for uncertain gains. In modern life, this can be reflected in a scenario where an employee neglects their stable job in pursuit of a supposedly better opportunity, only to find themselves without either when the new offer falls through. The moral reminds us that sometimes, holding onto what we have is wiser than chasing after what we might not obtain.
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Other names for this story
Lost Opportunities, The Lion's Regret, A Lesson in Choices, The Hare's Escape, The Chase of the Hart, The Price of Greed, When Hunger Strikes, The Cunning Escape
Did You Know?
This fable illustrates the theme of greed and the consequences of not appreciating what one already possesses; the Lion loses both the Hare and the opportunity to catch the Hart by prioritizing potential gain over what was already within his grasp.
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