Akbar, The Great: Who is Greater? God or King

Introduction

Once, the Moghul Emperor, Akbar the Great, assembled his court and posed a challenging question. “Who is greater? God or I?” asked the Monarch. While the courtiers chorused ‘God, of course’, Birbal dared to disagree stating to the King, “You are greater, Excellency.”

Akbar’s Confusion

This unexpected response astounded Akbar, prompting him to seek clarification. “And how is that?” he enquired. Remaining cryptic, Birbal responded, “Your Majesty, you are capable of doing something which even God cannot attempt.”

Birbal’s Twisted Logic

The courtiers, who were sure Birbal was flattering the Monarch to accrue personal benefits, watched him with increasing distaste. Yet, they and the king were also eager to comprehend Birbal’s complex statement. Birbal calmly delivered his explanation. “I said you were greater than God because you could do something that God could not do. You, Your Majesty, can send anyone into exile from this land. God’s power is everywhere, there is no place in the universe outside his influence. Therefore, God cannot exile anyone from his realm. But you can order a man into exile and ensure your command is executed. That is why I said you are greater than God.”

Conclusion

Birbal’s unusual reasoning delighted Akbar who praised him for his sharp intellect, rewarding him generously. Many courtiers, jealous of Birbal, blamed themselves for not thinking of the simple yet clever answer before the court dispersed for the day.

Why is the Sea Salty?

The sea derives its saltiness from rivers, which transport salts and other chemicals from the soils they traverse. Some seas, like the Arctic and Antarctic, are only mildly salty as few rivers reach them. However, the Atlantic and Pacific oceans are very salty due to the numerous rivers that flow into them, carrying salts from diverse lands.

Placement: After this line: “This unexpected response astounded Akbar, prompting him to seek clarification.”

Placement: After this line: “Birbal’s unusual reasoning delighted Akbar who praised him for his sharp intellect, rewarding him generously.”