Story One: The Well-Timed Lie

I heard of a king who ordered a captive put to death. In that hopeless moment the poor man began cursing and swearing at the king, for as they say: whoever gives up on life will say whatever is in his heart. When there is no escape left in a moment of need, the hand reaches out to grip the sharp blade's edge. When a person loses all hope, his tongue grows long, like a cornered cat that leaps at the dog. The king asked, 'What is he saying?' One of his good-natured ministers replied, 'Your Majesty, he is reciting: those who restrain their anger and pardon other people.' The king felt pity and spared his life. A rival minister said, 'It does not suit men of our rank to speak anything but the truth before kings. This man was cursing you and insulting you.' The king's face darkened at these words, and he said, 'His lie pleased me more than this truth of yours, for his aim served a good end, while yours was built on malice.' And the wise have said: a lie that brings peace is better than a truth that stirs strife. Whoever prompts the king to act on his word, it would be a shame to say anything but good. On the arch of Fereydun's palace it was written: This world, brother, stays with no one; fix your heart on the Maker of the world, and that alone. Do not lean or rely on the kingdom of this world, for it has raised many like you, then killed them. When the pure soul sets out to leave, what difference is dying on a throne or on the bare ground?