A completing story showing that excessive pride and boastfulness always lead to downfall.

The story begins: Once there lived a mighty king who was very proud of his power and wealth. He believed that no one on earth was greater than he.

The Story

The king ruled over a vast and rich kingdom. He had a strong army, a splendid palace and countless servants. Everyone bowed before him and praised him wherever he went.

Day by day his pride grew greater. He began to think that even nature itself must obey his commands. He looked down upon ordinary people and would listen to no one's advice.

One day he sat upon his throne by the seashore, surrounded by his flatterers. To please him, they said, "O king, you are the lord of all. The whole world obeys you, and nothing can disobey your orders."

Hearing this, the proud king wished to prove his power to everyone. He pointed to the rising tide of the sea and declared that even the waves would stop at his command.

He ordered his throne to be placed at the very edge of the water. Then, in a loud voice, he commanded, "O sea, I am your master. Come no further! Do not dare to wet my feet or my robe."

But the sea took no notice of his proud words. The tide kept rising higher and higher, just as it always did. Wave after wave rolled in towards the king's throne.

Soon the water reached his feet, then his knees, and began to soak his royal robe. The king had to rise and step back quickly to save himself from the rising tide.

Now the king felt deeply ashamed before his flatterers. He understood at last that his power was nothing before the forces of nature, and that he was only a weak human being.

From that day on, the king gave up his foolish pride. He became humble and wise, and he ruled his kingdom with kindness and good sense for the rest of his life.

Moral: Pride goes before a fall.