The King and the Hermit

Introduction:
The story of the king going to see the hermit is a famous anecdote that teaches us valuable lessons about humility and the pursuit of happiness. Let's delve into the details of this story and understand why the king went to see the hermit in simple clothes.

The King's Desire:
The king, despite having all the material wealth and power, was restless and unhappy. He sought enlightenment and wanted answers to the deeper questions of life. In his search for meaning, he heard about a wise hermit who resided in a cave deep in the forest.

The King's Attire:
The king understood that in order to approach the hermit, he needed to shed his royal identity and dress in simple clothes. By doing so, he symbolically left behind his status, wealth, and external trappings of power. This act of humility and simplicity allowed him to approach the hermit as an equal, without any superiority or entitlement.

Reasons behind the Choice:
The king's decision to wear simple clothes had several reasons and implications:

1. Humility: By discarding his royal attire, the king humbled himself and showed respect for the hermit. It was an acknowledgment that wisdom and spiritual guidance were not dependent on material possessions or social status.

2. Equality: The king wanted to be treated as an ordinary person, devoid of any special treatment. Wearing simple clothes erased any visible distinction between him and the hermit, fostering an environment of equality and open communication.

3. Inner Focus: By removing the distractions of wealth and power, the king focused solely on his inner self. Simple clothes allowed him to direct his attention towards introspection and self-discovery, rather than being preoccupied with external appearances.

4. Authenticity: The king's choice of attire reflected his genuine intention to seek wisdom and find answers to his existential questions. It showcased his sincerity and willingness to learn from the hermit without any pretense.

Conclusion:
The choice of wearing simple clothes by the king when visiting the hermit was symbolic of his humility, desire for equality, inner focus, and authenticity. This act allowed the king to approach the hermit with sincerity and openness, setting the stage for a meaningful exchange that ultimately led to a transformation in the king's perspective and happiness.