World Tale: Strength (African)

Hare did not like Lion. He watched disapprovingly as Lion strutted about, destroying animal homes, eating what and where he wished, disregarding the damage he caused, roaring to hear the sound of his voice. Hare especially disliked Lion boasting, “There is no animal greater than me.”

Hare realized Elephant might be stronger than Lion but Elephant went about his business without bothering anyone. Elephant was not a fighter. If Lion decided to attack Elephant Hare thought Elephant would go away rather than stay and fight. 

One day, after hearing Lion strutting and boasting how strong he was, Hare decided he had to do something to stop Lion, but he was small, and he wasn’t a fighter. What could he do? For days he could not think of a plan. Maybe there was nothing to be done. 

After spending a lot of time finding the best grasses to eat, and easing his hunger, Hare had an idea. He jumped with joy all the way to the river where Lion was drinking. When Lion saw Hare he let out a roar that shook the earth. Trying not to show his fear, Hare approached Lion. 

Lion roared even louder as Hare came closer. When Hare didn’t show the fear he felt, Lion shouted, “Be careful. I am the mightiest and strongest of animals.”

Hare found his voice. “Yes, you are mighty and strong but there is one who is stronger than you.”

When Lion heard this, his roar was so loud and powerful it almost knocked Hare to the ground. “Take me to this creature. I will show him who is stronger.”

“I will, but you can only see him in a house.”

“Then take me to this house,” roared Lion.

Hare led Lion to the house he had prepared for him. “Go into the house and you will meet the creature stronger than you.” When Lion was inside, Hare locked the door.

Every time Lion roared, “Where is this creature?” Hare told him to wait. He would come when he was ready. When Lion grew impatient and demanded to be let out, Hare reassured Lion the creature would come.

Many days passed. There came a time when Hare called out to Lion but there was only a muffled response. Carefully Hare unlocked the door and went into the house. He found Lion lying on the floor, too weak to move. “I see your visitor has arrived,” said Hare.

Puzzled, Lion asked, “Who is he?”

“Hunger,” replied Hare.