Time Allowed to Run Its Course
The King’s Whimsical Ambition
Long ago, there was a king who had a bee in his bonnet. He often wanted to do things according to his fancy and whim, which could have wrought havoc in his kingdom. Luckily, he had a wise minister who, somehow, always saved the situation.
The Mendicant’s Promise
One day, a false mendicant came to see the king. Looking into the king’s eyes, he gravely said, “My lord! I can see that you are nursing some fond ambition in your heart. If you tell me what it is, I can perhaps help you to fulfill it.”
The king was surprised. “O great soul!” he exclaimed, “I have no doubt that you can read what is written even in the deepest corner of one’s heart. To be frank, I have an ambition to become an emperor. I often curse my luck for having to pass my days as a mere king!”
Astrological Revelations
“Ha! Ha! I thought so,” said the mendicant. “Let me see your horoscope and ascertain if there is any chance of your desire being realized.” After examining the king’s horoscope, he continued, “I see that thirty years ago there was an auspicious time in your life when you could have become an emperor with just a little effort. But never mind if that chance is gone. Another similar opportunity is coming after thirty years, when you will find yourself turned into an emperor without the slightest effort.”
The king was overjoyed and rewarded the false mendicant with numerous gifts. However, as days passed, he became increasingly impatient. An audacious idea struck him. He called all the astrologers of his kingdom and commanded, “I want you to advance time by thirty years. Change the almanac accordingly.”
The Astrologers’ Dilemma
The astrologers had never faced such a peculiar situation. They tried to explain the absurdity of the king’s order, but he refused to consider their arguments. Distressed, the astrologers reported the incident to the minister, who promptly appeared before the king.
The Consequences of Time Manipulation
“My lord! Have you considered the consequences of your latest order?” the minister asked.
“What is there to consider?” inquired the king.
“You are now forty-five. If we advance time by thirty years, you will be seventy-five. According to our tradition, a king cannot sit on the throne after reaching seventy. You must retire and leave the throne to the crown prince,” the minister explained.
“I see! In that case, let the needful be done to push the time backward by thirty years!” the king responded thoughtfully.
“However, if that is done, my lord, you would be seen as a young lad of fifteen. And as you know, a prince cannot occupy the throne unless he has completed twenty years of age!” the minister reminded him.
The King’s Realization
The king’s face turned gloomy. With anxiety in his voice, he told the minister, “Please meet the astrologers before they disperse and inform them that if anyone attempts to change the almanac, they will be severely punished. Let time run its course!”