326th story

One day, the ruler of the kingdom went outside the city for a leisurely ride. The air was fresh, and the fields stretched wide under the open sky. As he passed through the countryside, his eyes fell upon a middle-aged farmer working tirelessly on his land. The man’s clothes were simple and worn, his hands rough from years of labour, yet he worked with steady determination.

The ruler watched him for a long moment, then, without saying a word, turned his horse around and returned to his palace.

As soon as he arrived, he ordered his guards:

“Bring that farmer to me. Immediately.”

The poor villager, confused and trembling, was taken from his field and brought before the grand throne. The palace was overwhelming, with tall columns, shining floors, and richly woven carpets. He stood there shaking, afraid he might have unknowingly committed some offence.

To his astonishment, the ruler commanded that fine, expensive garments be brought and placed upon the farmer. The rough work clothes were removed, and he was dressed in silk and embroidered fabric. Then the ruler ordered:

“Give him a strong, well-bred mule with a proper saddle and bridle.”

The court looked on in surprise. Such generosity toward a simple farmer was unexpected.

The ruler stepped down from his throne and began pacing slowly across the hall. His expression was thoughtful, almost mysterious. Then he turned to the farmer and said calmly:

“You may return to your work.”

Relieved yet confused, the poor man bowed and prepared to leave. But just as he took his first step forward, the ruler suddenly struck him firmly on the back of the neck.

The sound echoed through the hall.

Everyone froze in shock. The court officials stared in disbelief. First such generosity and now such a blow? They waited silently, certain there must be a reason behind this strange act.

The ruler looked at the farmer and asked:

“Do you know who I am?”

The trembling man replied, “You are the crown upon the heads of your subjects… the ruler of this city.”

The ruler narrowed his eyes slightly.

“Do you know me beyond that?”

The farmer fell silent. His silence spoke of confusion and helplessness. He did not understand.

Then the ruler spoke again, his voice quieter now.

“Do you remember twenty years ago? You and I were friends. We were young, poor, and unknown. One rainy night, when the doors of God’s mercy were wide open, I raised my hands toward the sky and prayed: ‘O God, by the blessing of this rain and Your mercy, make me the ruler of this land.”