Long ago, in the lush forests of Ghana, animals lived together under the great baobab tree. Among them was a clever hare named Kwaku. Though small, Kwaku was famous for his quick thinking and sharp wit. The mighty lion, Nani, was the ruler of the forest, proud and fierce, commanding respect from all animals.
One day, Nani grew tired of how the animals whispered about Kwaku’s cleverness. “No small creature should think they are wiser than the king,” Nani roared, pacing in his den. “I will challenge that hare and teach him his place.”
Word spread quickly. Nani declared a contest to be held the next morning at the clearing under the great baobab tree. All animals gathered, buzzing with excitement and fear. Kwaku arrived, calm but alert.
Nani spoke in a voice like thunder, “Hare, you claim to be clever. Tomorrow, I will ask you a question. If you answer well, you may live. If not, you will become my meal.”
Kwaku nodded, “I accept your challenge.”
That night, Kwaku sat by the fire with his friends the parrot and the tortoise. “We must prepare. What question will the lion ask?” asked the tortoise slowly.
Kwaku smiled, “I do not know. But I will listen carefully and answer wisely.”
Morning came bright and warm. The animals gathered in silence as Nani stepped forward. “Hare, here is my question. What is the most powerful force in the world?”
Kwaku thought deeply. His mind raced through stories and lessons from his elders. Then he answered, “Great lion, the most powerful force in the world is kindness.”
The lion snorted, “Kindness? That is a weak answer. What of strength, speed, or teeth?”
Kwaku replied, “Strength can break bones, speed can outrun, and teeth can bite, but kindness can change hearts and bring peace. A kingdom ruled by kindness flourishes; a kingdom ruled by fear crumbles.”
Nani growled, “Very well. You live. But another test awaits.”
Days later, the lion returned with a new challenge: to bring him the golden feather of the mythical phoenix, said to live beyond the mountains where no animal had dared to go.
Kwaku’s heart pounded, but he did not falter. With his friends’ blessings, he set out on the long journey.
The path was filled with dangers—steep cliffs, wild storms, and cunning traps set by jealous animals. But Kwaku’s quick thinking saved him at every turn. He tricked a hungry hyena into chasing its own shadow and calmed a fierce eagle with a song learned from the parrot.
After many days, Kwaku reached the mountain peak, where the phoenix nested. The bird’s feathers shimmered with gold and fire. Kwaku approached respectfully and spoke, “Great phoenix, I come with respect and seek your golden feather to save my village.”
The phoenix looked deep into Kwaku’s eyes and said, “Clever hare, your courage and kindness have brought you here. Take this feather as a symbol of your heart’s strength.”
With the golden feather in paw, Kwaku returned to the forest, greeted by cheering animals. Nani, humbled by the hare’s bravery and wisdom, bowed his head and said, “You have shown that cleverness and kindness together are the greatest powers.”
From that day, Kwaku and Nani ruled side by side, teaching the forest that courage, wisdom, and kindness must walk together.
✧ Commentary
This tale from Ghana reflects the rich tradition of animal fables that teach important virtues through relatable characters. The story emphasizes that true power is not only physical strength but also kindness, intelligence, and courage. Kwaku’s journey illustrates perseverance in the face of danger and respect for others, including mythical creatures.
✧ Moral
Courage and kindness, combined with cleverness, are the greatest strengths. Wisdom can overcome fear and bring harmony.
✧ Questions & Answers
1. Q: What challenge did the lion give to the hare first? A: To answer what the most powerful force in the world is.
2. Q: What was Kwaku’s answer? A: Kindness.
3. Q: What was the second challenge? A: To bring the golden feather of the phoenix.
4. Q: How did Kwaku get the feather? A: By showing courage and respect to the phoenix.
5. Q: What lesson does this story teach about power? A: That true power comes from kindness, wisdom, and courage, not just physical strength.
