Sheikh Saadi and a nobleman - Completing Story

Once there lived a legend named Sheikh Saadi. He was a world-renowned poet. Though he was famous and rich, he liked to dress simply to show humility.  

One time, he was travelling to Iran to accept an invitation from the king. On his way, he had to pause his journey to rest. He knocked at the doors of a nobleman for shelter. As usual, he was dressed very simply. So, the nobleman took him as an ordinary passerby. 

The nobleman and his servants did not show much hospitality towards him. The nobleman thought, "He looks so normal. So it would be fine to treat him not so seriously". they did not talk to him nicely and Sheikh Saadi's food was served in a small room where he had to eat alone. This behavior's hurt him(SS) very badly. In the morning he went out to pursue his journey without saying anything to them. 

The king of Iran and his courtiers greeted Sheikh Saadi with respect and hospitality. He(SS) entertained them by writing and reciting poems. The king was impressed by his(SS) talents and rewarded him generously. The king also sent guards from the palace to ensure the poet's comfortable journey. On his(SS) way, he again stopped for shelter at the same nobleman's house. This time the scenario was completely different. 

The nobleman thought, "Royal guards and such expensive attire and jewellery! He must be a very rich and honorable person. We must greet him with respect and treat him nicely". He(SS) was treated with great hospitality, one servant was always by him, and the nobleman and his family behaved very nicely with him. At the dinner table, they all sat together to give him(SS) company. There were plenty of dishes served for him to eat. Sheikh Saadi was shocked. 

He figured out that their behavior was different according to his outer looks. When he looked shabby they were not very fond of him. But now with an expensive outfit, he grabbed their attention because they treat the poor and rich differently. 

So, he(SS) thought of teaching them a lesson. He started to put all the food in his pockets instead of eating. The nobleman was confused and asked him why he(SS) did that. Then Sheikh Saadi replied, "Do you not remember me, gentleman? I am the same man who took shelter in your house earlier. 

That night, you treated me very badly. But now that I look rich in my outfits, you all are ready to treat me with respect. So, I guess my attire deserves this food, not me!" This made the nobleman realize his faults and he(N) felt very ashamed. He said sorry to the poet and promised to never treat people differently according to their outlook. 

MORAL: Do not judge a book by its cover/ Dress Does not Make a Man Great.

VOCABULARY:

1) Nobleman - অভিজাত বংশীয় ব্যক্তি
2) Hospitality - আতিথেয়তা
3) Legend - কিংবদন্তি
4) Courtiers - দরবারী