Christian Library | Full Free Coptic Books | Orthodox Library

Short Stories (Stories for the Youth), book by Father Tadros Yacoub Malaty

447- The Lion and the Proud Donkey

 

St-Takla.org Image: Lion and two lionesses - Photograph by Michael Ghaly for St-Takla.org, South Africa, 2008 صورة في موقع الأنبا تكلا: أسد و2 لبؤة - تصوير مايكل غالي لـ: موقع الأنبا تكلا هيمانوت، جنوب أفريقيا، 2008

A lion noticed that many of the animals like deer and wild pigs hide in caves and holes for fear of him. He thought of something that would make these animals come out so that he could devour them. The lion walked with a donkey that had a strong voice. The Lion hid between the branches of the trees and ordered the donkey to shout suddenly. As the animals feared the donkey’s voice, they came out of their hidden places. The lion attacked some of them and devoured them.

This was repeated as the lion went around from place to place with the donkey. Proudly, the donkey said to the lion, “amn’t I successful in my service to you?”

The lion answered sarcastically, “Absolutely, you’re a successful donkey. Without you, I wouldn’t be able to catch these animals. If I didn’t know your qualities and those of your race, I also would be scared of your voice.”

The donkey felt the mockery of the lion and his sarcasm. He was angry yet he couldn’t retire from the lion’s service lest he devour him.

So also every one who praises himself can deceive whoever doesn’t know him. However, he will surely be mocked at by him who knows his nature.

→ English translation of the story here at St-Takla.org: الأسد والحمار المتكبر.

 

 Grant me my Lord a humble spirit.

 Let me feel every success is due to the blessing of your grace.

You alone know my weakness.

You alone encourage me and never mock me,

For, I am your son.

---