Mouse-deer, Cow, and Crocodile

Mouse Deer's Cunning: Lessons in Gratitude and Kindness

Edisi Indonesia: Kancil, Sapi, dan Buaya

Nusantara Fable about the Mouse-deer (Kancil in Indonesian), Cow, and Crocodile

In the dense forest, a cry of pain echoed. The cow, strolling through the woods, was taken aback by the sound. Without hesitation, it followed the sound and discovered a crocodile trapped under a pile of large rocks. The crocodile pleaded for help with a strained voice.

Initially hesitant, the cow contemplated leaving, abandoning the struggling crocodile. However, compassion prevailed, setting aside doubts and prompting the cow to lend a helping hand.

The cow convinced the crocodile to carry him to the riverbank. The crocodile, citing an injured leg, implored the cow to transport him so he could swim to the riverbank.

"I beg you, help me. Take me to the river," he pleaded, tears welling in his eyes.

Unable to witness the suffering, the cow decided to assist. However, upon reaching the riverbank, the crocodile refused to descend.

"I'm hungry. Your back meat looks delicious," the crocodile greedily remarked.

Shocked and saddened, the cow began to cry, its wails catching the attention of Kancil, who happened to be passing by.

"Hey cow, why are you crying? Why is there a crocodile on your back?" inquired Kancil, filled with astonishment.

The cow recounted the recent incident with bitterness.

Kancil, being clever and cunning, immediately sensed deception. Inviting both the crocodile and the cow back to the pile of large rocks, he expressed disbelief at a mighty crocodile requiring aid from a cow, wearing a wry smile.

Provoked and challenged, the crocodile followed them. However, upon returning to the pile of rocks, the crocodile swiftly slithered back under.

Kancil astutely exposed the crocodile's lie, acknowledging the truth of the situation. He led the cow away, leaving the greedy and ungrateful crocodile once again trapped beneath the rocks.

Moral Message: The Value of Gratitude and Kindness: Appreciate the Help of Others

The moral of the Kancil story imparts to children the significance of being grateful and recognizing the assistance provided by others. It emphasizes the importance of never repaying good with evil, as demonstrated by the crocodile's actions towards the cow.