Thousand-Furred Deer

Seruni: The Enchantment of Loving Fur for Protection and Kindness

Edisi Indonesia: Rusa Berbulu Seribu

Folklore from West Java

Once upon a time in Sunda, there lived a remarkably beautiful princess named Kanti. Kanti held a deep love for nature and frequently wandered through lush forests. One day, on her journey, Kanti encountered a benevolent fairy. The fairy bestowed upon her a lovely little deer adorned with a coat of thick, glistening fur.

The fairy informed Kanti that the deer possessed a unique ability—each strand of fur held its own magic. The deer could transform its fur into whatever it desired. However, there was one condition: the deer must use its magical powers solely for benevolent purposes.

With a heart brimming with joy, Kanti brought the little deer home and christened it "Seruni." Every day, Kanti nurtured and cared for Seruni with boundless affection.

One fateful night, as heavy rain poured over the forest, a gang of robbers emerged. Their intent was to pillage villages and terrorize the inhabitants. Feeling helpless, Kanti was suddenly joined by Seruni. Employing her magical abilities, Seruni morphed her fur into a myriad of shapes. She materialized before the robbers as a pack of fearsome creatures.

The robbers, petrified, mistook the forest for a realm teeming with terrifying beasts. They fled from the village, gripped by fear of the imagined danger.

Since that moment, Kanti realized the extraordinary nature of the little deer. Seruni became the guardian of the forest and protector of the village against any threats. The tale of this thousand-furred deer that shape-shifts for the greater good has spread widely, narrating the enchantment concealed within the Sunda forest.

Moral: The Miracle of Compassion: Shielding Others with Strength and Care

The moral tale of the Thousand-Furred Deer encapsulates several vital values, including:

1. Kindness and Utilizing Strength: The central message underscores the significance of employing one's strengths or abilities for righteous and affirmative purposes. Seruni employs the magic of her fur to shield and confront malevolence, showcasing the use of power for benevolence.
2. Compassion and Safeguarding: The story accentuates the significance of compassion and concern for fellow creatures. Kanti lovingly tended to Seruni, and reciprocally, Seruni safeguarded the village, the forest, and all inhabitants within.
3. Courage and Problem-Solving: Seruni exemplifies courage and ingenuity when faced with challenges. Confronted with a threat to the village, Seruni employs her magical abilities to resolve the predicament without causing harm.

This moral message serves as a lesson, highlighting the strengths inherent in each individual, the importance of kindness, and how these strengths can be harnessed to protect and aid others.