The Potter Mistaken for a Warrior

A potter named Fight-Firm worked in a courtyard crowded with clay jars. One evening he stumbled over a broken pot and cut his forehead. The wound healed, but it left a wide scar.

Years later, a famine made work scarce. Fight-Firm travelled to another kingdom and found a place among the palace guards. When the king noticed his scar, he assumed it came from a brave battle. “Here stands a seasoned warrior,” the king thought, and he gave the newcomer special honour.

Fight-Firm enjoyed the respect but never claimed that he had fought in a war. Still, he also did not correct the king’s assumption. Other guards wondered why an untested stranger had been placed above them.

During a royal inspection, the king finally asked, “In which battle did you receive that impressive scar?” Fight-Firm bowed and answered truthfully. “Your Majesty, I am a potter by birth. I fell against a broken jar. This is not a battle wound.”

The king was surprised and embarrassed by his own quick judgment. “Your honesty is good,” he said, “but a guard must be trained before receiving a warrior’s duty.” He moved Fight-Firm from the front rank and offered him work caring for the palace pottery while he learned basic guard skills.

Fight-Firm accepted the fair decision. In time, his excellent craft filled the palace with strong water jars, lamps, and bowls. Everyone learned that a scar cannot prove courage, just as fine clothing cannot prove wisdom. It is better to ask, learn, and judge by real ability.