It happened once that the great Emperor Akbar wished to send an envoy to the Shah of Persia, and he chose for this purpose his trusted minister Birbal. One of his other counsellors, perhaps thinking that he himself would be better suited for such a prestigious role, observed that other candidates were also available.

“I choose Birbal because he knows how to think on his feet,” Akbar replied. “You will accompany him on this mission, and I assure you that when you return you will know what I mean.”

When Birbal was ready to depart, Akbar gave him a beautifully ornamented and elaborately wrapped box to take as a present to the Shah – but he did not tell Birbal what it contained.

At the court of the Shah, after a flowery speech of greeting, Birbal brought forth the box, saying, “My master, may Allah be pleased with him, begs you to accept this gift, which he sends that you may know his true feelings for you.”

Then Birbal removed the wrappings and opened the box – to reveal, for all the court to see, an old, worn and rather dirty sandal.

The counsellor who was accompanying Birbal felt his heart go cold. For such an affront, he and Birbal would be lucky to escape with their lives!

Birbal gazed at the sandal for a moment, and then lifted his head and speaking to all the assembly, said, “Excellencies, a moment of silence!”

When he spoke again, he said to the Shah, “I did not realise how highly my Master regards you, your highness. Know that this is no ordinary sandal – for it is a sacred relic. It once belonged to the Holy Prophet, may Peace be upon him. It carried him across the desert, protecting him from the burning sand, it sat upon his foot as he delivered the Message. What is more, ” Birbal continued, “its mate, the other sandal of the pair, remains with my master, as a sign of the eternal harmony and fraternity between our two kingdoms.”

When the two returned home, Akbar asked the counsellor for his report. “Majesty,” the man said humbly, “I have no words.”