The Cost of a Lie

One day, a wealthy merchant was summoned to Emperor Akbar’s court for evading taxes. When questioned, the merchant cleverly twisted his words, presenting false documents to escape the charges. His story seemed convincing to most, and many in the court were unsure how to challenge it.

Akbar, though suspicious, turned to Birbal. “Birbal, if this man is lying, how much do you think his lie is worth?”

Birbal didn’t respond immediately. Instead, he walked over to the merchant, pulled a small copper coin from his pocket, and handed it to him.

“This,” Birbal said calmly, “is the value of your lie.”

The court looked on in confusion. The merchant accepted the coin, unsure whether it was an insult or a bribe.

Then Birbal continued, “You may think you saved a fortune today. But in truth, you've sold your integrity for the price of a single coin. A lie may protect you for a moment, but it stains your reputation forever. From this day forward, your honesty will be doubted, your word questioned. What you gained in money, you lost in honor.”

The merchant lowered his head, ashamed.

Akbar nodded slowly, impressed. “Well said, Birbal. The true cost of a lie is far greater than what it seems.”

Moral: A lie may seem small, but its cost is your honor.