The Deceptive Cat

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A sparrow returned to find her burrow claimed by a rabbit. Distraught, she sought advice from her friend perched high in the tree. But the friend only reminded her: no bird builds its nest at the roots. Now, her poor choice had left her vulnerable.

Unable to agree, the sparrow and the rabbit searched for a wise judge. Nearby, a wild cat prowled—hungry, but clever. When he overheard their quarrel, he stood upright, eyes closed, clutching kusa grass like a holy sage. His presence radiated calm, even sanctity.

Hesitant but hopeful, the two approached. The sparrow recounted her tale from a safe distance. “Come closer, sister,” purred the cat, “I am deaf. Fear not, for I have renounced violence—I harm not even the mosquitoes that bite me.”

Reassured, the sparrow and rabbit sat beside him to explain further. In a flash, the saintly mask slipped. The cat leapt, and they discovered too late that their true conflict was not with each other but with the predator cloaked in virtue.

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Moral: Beware those who proclaim goodness. True virtue is lived, not declared.

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