The Prophet
Story Summary
In "The Prophet," a wizard known for telling fortunes faces a moment of irony when he learns his house is being robbed, despite his ability to foresee the futures of others. As he rushes to save his belongings, a mocking neighbor questions why he couldn't predict his own misfortune, highlighting a powerful lesson about the limitations of foresight. This simple short story with moral serves as a reminder of the importance of personal awareness and growth, making it one of the best moral stories for students.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
The moral of the story is that one should not neglect their own well-being while focusing on the problems of others.
Historical Context
This story draws from the rich tradition of folklore and fables, particularly within Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures, where tales often feature wise or mystical figures whose knowledge of the future contrasts with their own personal misfortunes. It echoes similar motifs found in Aesop's Fables and the Panchatantra, highlighting the irony that those who claim to possess great wisdom or foresight may still fall victim to their own shortcomings or blind spots. Such narratives serve to impart moral lessons about humility, the limits of knowledge, and the unpredictability of life.
Our Editors Opinion
This story highlights the irony of being able to predict others' futures while neglecting one's own reality, a lesson that resonates in today's fast-paced world where people often focus on external appearances or helping others while ignoring their personal challenges. For instance, a financial advisor may spend all their time advising clients on investments, yet fail to manage their own financial health, leading to personal financial struggles despite their expertise.
You May Also Like
The Bear and the Fox
In the short fable "The Bear and the Fox," a boastful Bear claims to be the most philanthropic animal, asserting he respects humans so greatly that he won't even touch their dead bodies. The clever Fox counters this claim, suggesting it would be far more virtuous for the Bear to eat the dead rather than prey on the living. This well-known moral story highlights the true nature of philanthropy in a humorous and thought-provoking manner.
The Bull the Lioness and the Wild Boar Hunter
In this impactful moral story, a bull accidentally kills a lioness's cub, prompting her to mourn deeply. A wild boar hunter, observing her sorrow, points out that many men also grieve for their lost children due to her predatory nature. This short moral tale serves as a reminder of the cycle of loss and the consequences of one's actions, making it a poignant lesson for class 7 students.
A Flourishing Industry
In "A Flourishing Industry," a foreign traveler asks a local about American industries, only to discover that the man's business is thriving in an unexpected way—he manufactures boxing gloves for verbal sparring rather than physical fights. This humorous twist highlights the heartwarming moral that competition can be both playful and uplifting, making it a meaningful story with moral lessons about creativity and resilience.
Other names for this story
Fortune's Folly, The Seer's Dilemma, The Wizard's Blind Spot, Prophecy and Plunder, A Fortune Foretold, The Marketplace Oracle, The Unseen Theft, The Hasty Revelation
Did You Know?
This story highlights the irony of being able to predict the fortunes of others while being oblivious to one's own misfortunes, emphasizing the theme of self-awareness versus external insight. It suggests that even those with great wisdom or abilities may overlook their personal challenges.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.