The Real Bargain

Although Nanak grew up to become a fine young man; he was never interested in jobs given to him by his father Kalu. Nanak would spend more of his time in the company of monks. Seeing this Kalu was really worried about Nanak's future, because if Nanak was not working, how could he support himself and his family. One day he thought of an idea and called Nanak. "Nanak my dear son" he said "here are 20 Rupees, take them and go to the city and by some goods which we can then sell at a profit. This way you can become a businessman and will be able to earn your living comfortably".

Reluctantly Nanak agreed and took the money. Nanak started his journey with his friend Bala. On the way to the city Nanak saw some monks sitting under the tree. Nanak was attracted towards them. When he approached them he saw that their faces were pale and they looked frail. Nanak asked "oh holy men, why are you so unhappy"? They replied "We have been hungry for three days". As Nanak placed his hand in the pocket, his friend Bala said "Don't even think about it". Nanak said to the monks "please wait for a little while longer I will be back".

Nanak went to the city and instead of buying goods to sell he bought food for the monks. Nanak then fed the monks. The monks were pleased, they blessed Nanak and said "Oh Nanak, God will bless you and your name will shine in the world". The monks then continued on their Journey.

Now it was Nanak's turn to be sad because he had to face his angry father. On his return his father told him off but Nanak said, "what could be a better bargain then feeding the hungry"? This made Kalu even angrier but Nanak's elder sister Nanaki saved him from the punishment.