The Question of Faith

One day, a well-dressed scholar arrived at Emperor Akbar’s court with an air of pride.

He bowed and announced, “Jahanpanah, I have read every holy scripture — every sacred text from beginning to end. I know all the teachings of every faith. Surely, that makes me the wisest man in your empire.”

The courtiers murmured in admiration. Akbar was impressed by the scholar’s claim but wanted to test his depth.

He turned to Birbal and asked, “What do you think, Birbal? Does reading every sacred book make a man truly wise?”

Birbal stepped forward and politely addressed the scholar. “Respected sir, may I ask you something simple?”

“Of course,” the scholar replied, lifting his chin.

Birbal asked, “Have you ever read a recipe for a delicious dish?”

“Yes, many,” the scholar answered confidently.

“Did reading it ever satisfy your hunger?” Birbal continued.

The scholar paused, confused. “Well… no. Of course not.”

Birbal smiled gently and said, “Just as reading a recipe cannot fill an empty stomach, reading holy books alone cannot fill the heart with understanding. True wisdom lies not only in words but in living their meaning.”

Akbar nodded thoughtfully, and the court fell silent in respect for Birbal’s wisdom.

Moral: Reading gives knowledge, but living gives wisdom experience brings understanding to life.