In the sunlit savannahs of Mali, where tall grasses sway like golden waves and animals gather near the watering holes, there lived a lion who ruled with arrogance. He was feared by all, for his roar echoed across the plains like thunder and his sharp claws struck terror into every creature. This lion believed that his strength alone gave him the right to dominate the entire animal kingdom. The smaller animals trembled whenever he appeared, yet none dared to resist him.
Among these creatures lived a hare, small in body but sharp in mind. Unlike the others, the hare refused to bow to the lion’s bullying. He knew that while muscles may frighten, wisdom holds a power that cannot be broken. One hot afternoon, when the lion was boasting about his might to the gathering of animals, the hare stepped forward with calm courage.
“Great Lion,” said the hare, his voice steady, “you claim to be the strongest of us all, but strength is not the only measure of greatness. I can show you another lion, even stronger than you, who lives nearby.”
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The lion’s eyes blazed with pride and anger. “Another lion, stronger than me? Show me at once, or I will crush you under my paw!”
The hare led the lion through winding paths until they reached a clear pool of water at the edge of the forest. The hare pointed toward the pool and said, “There he is, the lion who is your equal, waiting for you in the water.”
The lion gazed into the pool and saw his own reflection. Not realizing it was merely his image, he growled fiercely, and the reflection growled back. He roared with all his might, and again the reflection roared. Believing he had found a true rival, the lion leapt forward to attack. With a mighty splash, he plunged headfirst into the water, thrashing wildly.
The hare stood by, laughing softly. “Great Lion,” he said, “you wished to see a stronger rival, and indeed you have fought bravely against your own shadow.”
Soaked and humiliated, the lion dragged himself out of the pool. His mane dripped with water, and his pride was broken. The other animals, who had gathered in secret to watch, could no longer hide their laughter. From that day forward, the lion’s arrogance was tamed. Though he remained powerful, he never again ruled through fear, for he had learned that even the smallest creature could outwit him.
And as for the hare, his cleverness became legendary across the savannah. Parents told their children the tale so they would remember that intelligence can triumph over brute strength, no matter how daunting the challenge.
Moral Lesson
The story of The Cunning Hare and the Mighty Lion teaches that true strength lies not only in physical power but also in wisdom and cleverness. Pride and arrogance often blind the strong, while humility and intelligence allow the weak to survive and even prevail.
Knowledge Check
What lesson does the story of The Cunning Hare and the Mighty Lion emphasize about intelligence and strength?
The story shows that intelligence and wisdom can overcome brute strength, proving that cleverness is often more powerful than physical force.How does the hare prove his cleverness in dealing with the lion?
The hare tricks the lion into believing his reflection in the water is another lion, leading the lion to humiliate himself.Why did the lion mistake his reflection in the pool for another lion?
The lion’s pride and arrogance blinded him, so he could not recognize that the reflection was his own image.What reaction did the other animals have after witnessing the lion’s humiliation?
The animals laughed at the lion, relieved that his arrogance had been humbled by the hare’s trick.In what way does this Mandé trickster tale highlight justice in the animal kingdom?
It shows that arrogance and misuse of strength are punished, while cleverness and humility are rewarded.How can the story of The Cunning Hare and the Mighty Lion inspire children in facing challenges?
It teaches children that they do not need to be the strongest to succeed, as courage, wisdom, and creativity can help them overcome difficulties.
Source: Mandé trickster tale, Mali. Part of the oral storytelling cycle preserved by griots.
