In a quaint village, a renowned Saint paid a visit, attracting the attention of the wealthiest resident. Eager to showcase his prosperity, the rich man humbly approached the Saint, expressing his desire to serve him in any way possible.
"I have abundant wealth," the rich man declared, "and I am ready to fulfill any request you make."
The wise Saint, with a knowing smile, retrieved a small sewing needle hidden within his garments. He handed it to the rich man, saying, "Keep this needle safe and return it to me after your death."
Perplexed by the seemingly insignificant task, the rich man, driven by arrogance, assured the Saint, "I will do as you say."
As the rich man journeyed home, he pondered the unusual request. The realization struck him - how could he possibly carry a small needle with him after death?
The following day, the rich man returned to the Saint, admitting, "Maharaj, I underestimated the task you assigned. Returning this needle to you after my death seems impossible. Please take it back."
The Saint, still smiling, responded, "If you find it challenging to carry a tiny needle, consider the vast wealth you possess. Can you transport your millions after death? In truth, you are impoverished. Only the truly wealthy can carry something beyond death."
He continued, imparting a profound lesson, "Whatever can be measured cannot transcend death. Only the immeasurable, the intangible, can truly endure. Wealth, no matter how vast, is fleeting. The richness of the soul is the only treasure that accompanies us into the realms beyond."
And so, the rich man learned that the value of life transcends material possessions, and true wealth lies in the immaterial, the immeasurable, and the spiritual.