The Moths and the Flame by Attar of Nishapur

Once, three moths were curious about a candle they had heard so much about. They gathered to discuss its mystery.

The leader of the moths spoke:

"Who among us is brave enough to fly to the palace and discover the truth of the candle?"

The first moth eagerly stepped forward and said:

"I will go and bring back news for everyone."

It flew quickly to the palace and, from outside a window, saw the candle glowing brightly. Excited, the moth returned and said:

"The candle shines with a beautiful, glowing light."

The leader shook his head and said:

"This moth has only seen from afar. Someone else must go closer."

The second moth, more determined, said:

"I will go."

It flew into the palace and got closer to the candle. But as it approached, the heat of the flame nearly burned its wings. The moth hurried back and said:

"The candle is not just bright; it burns with great heat."

The leader replied:

"This one has felt the heat but still doesn’t understand the whole truth. Someone else must go."

The third moth, filled with both wonder and fear, spoke softly:

"I will go."

With great courage, it flew into the palace. It danced around the candle, getting closer and closer, until finally, it was so near that its wings caught fire, and it became one with the flame.

The leader, watching from afar, sighed and said:

"This moth has truly understood the candle."