ভূমিকা

Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books 100 Moral Stories FOUR WIVES Once upon a time. There was a rich merchant who had 4 wives. He loved the 4thwife the most and adorned her with rich robes and treated her to delicacies. He took great care of her & gave her nothing but the best. He also loved the 3rdwife very much. He’s very proud of her and always wanted to show off her to his friends. However, the merchant is always in fear that she might run away with some other men.

He too, loved his 2ndwife. She is a very considerate person, always patient & in fact is the merchant’s confidante. Whenever the merchant faced some problems, he always turned to his 2ndwife and she would always help him out and tide him through difficult times. Now, the merchant’s 1stwife is a very loyal partner and has made great contributions in maintaining his wealth and business as well as taking care of the household.

However, the merchant did not love the 1stwife and although she loved him deeply, he hardly took notice of her. One day, the merchant fell ill. Before long, he knew that he was going to die soon. He thought of his luxurious life and told himself, “Now I have 4 wives with me. But when I die, I’ll be alone. How lonely I’ll be!” Thus, he asked the 4thwife, “I loved you most, endowed you with the finest clothing and showered great care over you.

Now that I’m dying, will you follow me and keep me company?” “No way!” replied the 4thwife and she walked away without another word. Answer cut like a sharp knife right into the merchant’s heart. The sad merchant then asked the 3rdwife, “I have loved you so much for all my life. Now that I’m dying, will you follow me and keep me company?” “No!” replied the 3rdwife. “Life is so good over here! I’m going to remarry when you die!” The merchant’s heart sank and turned cold.

He then asked the 2ndwife, “I always turned to you for help and you’ve always helped me out. Now I need your help again. When I die, will you follow me and keep me company?” “I’m sorry, I can’t help you out this time!” replied the 2ndwife.” “At the very most, I can only send you to your grave.” Answer came like a bolt of thunder & merchant was devastated. Then a voice called out: “I’ll leave with you. I’ll follow you no matter where you go.” The merchant looked up and there was his 1stwife.

She was so skinny, almost like she suffered from malnutrition.