The Jackal and the Tiger

Bhairav the tiger ruled a stretch of forest with fear. Every animal avoided the path he used, and no creature dared to question him. Kalu the jackal, however, was quick-minded and knew that even the strongest animal could be defeated by his own pride.

One afternoon Bhairav caught Kalu near a dry riverbed. “Today you will be my meal,” growled the tiger.

Kalu bowed and said, “Great Bhairav, I would never challenge you. But I have just heard that another tiger has entered the forest and claims to be stronger than you.”

Bhairav's eyes narrowed. “Where is he?”

Kalu led him to an old stone well hidden among the trees. The well still held a little dark water. Kalu pointed inside and whispered, “He is hiding there.”

Bhairav leaned over the edge and saw his own reflection. Believing it to be a rival, he roared. The image roared back. He roared again, louder than before, and the sound echoed around the well.

In anger, Bhairav leapt toward the supposed enemy. He landed inside the well and could not climb out. Kalu stood safely above him.

“Help me!” the tiger shouted.

Kalu replied, “I will bring the other animals, but you must promise that you will no longer hunt the weak merely to prove your power.”

Trapped and frightened, Bhairav agreed. Kalu called the animals, and together they lowered strong vines into the well. They pulled the tiger out only after he repeated his promise before the whole forest.

From that day, Bhairav still remained powerful, but he no longer used fear as his law. Kalu often reminded him that a reflection could defeat a tiger, while a little wisdom could save one.