In the dense, vibrant forests of the Fang people in Cameroon, life pulsed with energy and constant activity. Towering trees stretched toward the sky, their leaves forming a thick canopy that filtered sunlight into dappled patterns on the forest floor. Rivers and streams wound gracefully through the undergrowth, reflecting the sky above, while birds called to one another in melodic conversation. Among the animals, disputes were rare but significant, for every creature understood the delicate balance that kept the forest in harmony.
One day, a disagreement arose over the right of inheritance after the passing of an old and respected tortoise. The tortoise had lived a long life, leaving behind a valuable collection of food stored in a hidden burrow and a small clearing that he had cultivated carefully. His offspring and relatives, as well as other animals who respected him, gathered to determine who would inherit his possessions. The dispute quickly became heated. Larger animals claimed that their strength entitled them to the inheritance. Smaller creatures argued that cleverness and diligence over the years had earned them the right to share the tortoise’s legacy.
The forest grew tense. Elephants trumpeted, antelopes stamped their hooves nervously, and even the timid birds fluttered anxiously in the trees. Observing quietly from a nearby branch, a clever monkey named M’Beka noted the rising discord. Known throughout the forest for his intelligence and fairness, M’Beka understood that strength alone could not resolve the matter. He knew a wise solution was necessary to prevent long-lasting conflict.
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M’Beka called the animals together and spoke calmly. “Friends of the forest, the tortoise lived among us with respect and care. We must decide inheritance not by strength or size alone, but by fairness and diligence. I will help guide this matter so that all creatures may learn a valuable lesson about justice and wisdom.” The animals listened carefully, recognizing the monkey’s reputation for clever thinking.
To determine the rightful inheritor, M’Beka devised a series of tests. Each animal would demonstrate not only their ability to claim the inheritance but also the wisdom and diligence that had earned them respect in the forest. The first test required the animals to find and identify the hidden food stores of the tortoise. The larger animals struggled, relying on strength to move obstacles, while the smaller, more observant animals navigated carefully, noticing hidden clues and patterns left by the tortoise.
Next, the animals were asked to care for a small portion of the tortoise’s cultivated clearing. They had to tend to seedlings, protect them from pests, and ensure their growth over several days. The larger animals attempted to do this by force, trampling sections of the garden accidentally, while the smaller and more careful creatures used patience and attention to detail to maintain the plants’ health.
Through each challenge, the animals learned an important truth: inheritance is not merely a reward for power, but for diligence, intelligence, and respect for the community. The Elephant, the Leopard, and the buffalo began to understand that strength alone could not ensure rightful ownership. Likewise, the smaller birds, monkeys, and tortoises realized that cleverness combined with patience and responsibility created true authority.
Finally, M’Beka gathered the animals together and announced the decision. The tortoise’s possessions would be divided among those who demonstrated care, intelligence, and respect for the forest’s harmony. Strength alone did not grant the right of inheritance, but wisdom, diligence, and fair conduct earned the reward. The animals accepted the judgment, relieved that a fair resolution had been reached. Peace returned to the forest, and the tortoise’s legacy continued to benefit all who lived there.
Moral Lesson
A Question of Right of Inheritance teaches that true entitlement and respect come not from strength or size alone, but from intelligence, diligence, and fair conduct. The story emphasizes that wisdom and responsibility must guide actions, especially in matters affecting a community. By valuing careful thought and respect over force, the animals of the Fang forest maintained harmony and justice.
Knowledge Check
What was the main conflict in the forest after the tortoise passed away?
The conflict was about who had the right to inherit the tortoise’s possessions, with larger animals claiming strength and smaller animals claiming diligence and cleverness.Who helped resolve the dispute among the animals?
M’Beka, the clever monkey, guided the animals toward a fair and wise resolution.What types of challenges did M’Beka set for the animals?
Animals had to locate the tortoise’s hidden food stores and care for a cultivated clearing to demonstrate diligence, intelligence, and responsibility.What lesson did the larger animals learn from the tests?
They learned that strength alone was insufficient to claim inheritance and that wisdom, patience, and careful observation were essential.Why were the smaller animals able to succeed in the tests?
Because they used intelligence, patience, and attention to detail rather than relying on force or speed.How does this folktale reflect the values of the Fang people?
It highlights the Fang appreciation for intelligence, fairness, diligence, and community harmony over brute strength.
Cultural Origin: Source: Fang folktale, Cameroon. Recorded by Robert H. Nassau in Where Animals Talk: West African Folklore Tales (1914).
