The Wise Monkey King: Leadership and Ingenuity

In a vast jungle, a wise monkey king, the Bodhisatta, led his troop of eighty thousand with vigilance and care. He always warned them, “Before eating unknown fruits or drinking from unfamiliar waters, consult me.” One day, while searching for food, the troop discovered a sparkling lake. Though thirsty, they waited, recalling their king’s guidance.

When the Bodhisatta arrived, he examined the shoreline and noticed a chilling sign: footprints leading into the water but none returning. “An ogre haunts this lake,” he declared. Frustrated by the monkeys’ hesitation, the ogre emerged and pleaded, “Come drink! The water is safe!” But the Bodhisatta saw through his deception.

Plucking a reed, the king blew through it, making it hollow, and drank without stepping into the water. He then commanded all reeds around the lake to turn hollow, allowing the troop to drink safely. The monkeys quenched their thirst, leaving the ogre powerless.

Centuries later, the Buddha recounted this tale when his disciples wondered why reeds were naturally hollow. He revealed that he was the monkey king, the ogre was Devadatta, his nemesis, and the troop were the very disciples gathered before him.

Moral

Wisdom and ingenuity protect against even the most cunning dangers. True leadership safeguards the many with foresight and care.