The Bowman and Lion

Summary

The story is a fable highlighting the theme of perceived strength versus actual power. A skilled bowman ventures into the mountains seeking animals to hunt, causing all creatures to flee except a brave lion. When challenged, the bowman shoots an arrow, calling it his 'messenger' to demonstrate his prowess. The lion, wounded and frightened, flees despite a fox advising it to remain courageous. The lion acknowledges that if the messenger (the arrow) is frightening, the bowman himself would be even more formidable. This story conveys the moral that the reputation or token of one’s power can be enough to intimidate, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and respecting power and skill.

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A very skillful Bowman went to the mountains in search of game, but all the beasts of the forest fled at his approach. The Lion alone challenged him to combat. The Bowman immediately shot out an arrow and said to the Lion: “I send thee my messenger, that from him thou mayest learn what I myself shall be when I assail thee.” The wounded Lion rushed away in great fear, and when a Fox who had seen it all happen told him to be of good courage and not to back off at the first attack he replied: “You counsel me in vain; for if he sends so fearful a messenger, how shall I abide the attack of the man himself?”