I knew the hermit used to help only ordinary men, so I left behind my servants and bodyguards. I went to meet him wearing simple clothes. The hermit was an old man and used to live in a hut amidst the woods. He was digging the ground in front of his hut when I arrived there. He greeted me and continued his work. I informed him the purpose of my visit, but still he continued digging the ground. He looked tired so I offered my help. He agreed, so I took the spade from him and started digging the ground.
After digging for many hours I again repeated my questions, but the hermit did not answer.
Evening was approaching and now I thought of returning. Suddenly, the hermit showed me a bearded man who was running towards us.
Chapter Overview: Three Questions
This story by Leo Tolstoy revolves around a king who seeks answers to three questions: What is the right time to begin something? Who are the most important people? What is the most important thing to do? Through a parable involving a hermit, a wounded man, and acts of kindness, Tolstoy teaches that the present moment, the person you are with, and doing good are the answers.
Author: Leo Tolstoy | Book: Honeycomb
Key Themes
- Importance of the present moment
- Compassion and forgiveness
- Wisdom through experience
- The value of helping others
Common Mistakes
- Thinking the hermit directly told the answers in words
- Not understanding that the story teaches through actions, not lectures
- Confusing who the wounded man was
- Missing the connection between the three answers
FAQs
What were the three questions the king wanted answered?
The three questions were: (1) What is the right time to begin something? (2) Who are the most important people to listen to? (3) What is the most important thing to do?
Why did the king go to the hermit?
The king went to the hermit because the hermit was known for his wisdom. Despite consulting many learned people, the king had not received satisfactory answers to his three questions. He believed the hermit could help him find the truth.
How did the wounded man become the king's friend?
The wounded man was actually the king's enemy who had come to kill him. But the king bandaged his wounds and saved his life. Grateful for the king's kindness, the enemy was filled with remorse and pledged to serve the king faithfully, becoming his friend.