Long ago, there lived a wealthy man who was extremely stingy. He never allowed himself to eat well or dress properly. His only concern in life was hoarding money and growing richer, even if it meant living worse than the poor. One day, a friend invited him to visit the city, but he hesitated and refused. He was afraid that if he went, he would be expected to treat his friend, and the thought of spending money terrified him.
After being mocked and laughed at for his miserly behavior for a long time, he finally decided to go. Before leaving, he went into his room, secretly tucked one single coin into his waistband, and ordered a servant to accompany him to the city. That coin was the only money he was willing to carry, and even then, he guarded it like a treasure.
When they arrived in the city, the man saw many things he wanted to buy. Yet every desire was defeated by his fear of losing money, so he bought nothing. The sun was blazing, and he was unbearably thirsty. He wanted to stop at a teahouse for a drink, but the thought of having to pay not only for himself but also for his servant made him turn away. He chose to endure the heat and thirst rather than spend a few coins.
By late afternoon, they headed home. While crossing the river by ferry, the man’s thirst became unbearable. In the middle of the river, he leaned down to drink the water, lost his balance, and fell straight into the river.
The servant panicked and shouted loudly, “Whoever saves my master will be rewarded with one coin.”
Struggling in the water, the miser heard this and forced himself to surface, crying out, “One coin is far too expensive.”
The servant quickly changed his offer and shouted again, “Then how about five small coins?”
The miser struggled up one last time and weakly protested, “Five coins are still too expensive,” before sinking beneath the water and disappearing forever.
This story reveals a clear lesson. Extreme greed can destroy even the richest life, and valuing money above basic needs, dignity, and survival ultimately leads to ruin.