Fables of the Talmud and the Midrash

Preliminary Study, Selection, and Notes: Manes Kogan
Design and Illustrations: Marcelo Ferder
English Translation: Sandy Berkofsky-Santana

 

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Fable 14: The Fox and the Vineyard

A fox came to a vineyard that was fenced in on all sides. He tried to get in through a hole in the fence, but it was too small. So what did he do? He fasted for three days until he became thin and weak and could fit through the hole. He entered the vineyard and ate until he was full and fat. He then tried to get out, but could not fit through the hole. He fasted for another three days until he was thin and svelte again, and could finally get out.

When he was on the outside, he went back to the vineyard, looked at it and said, “Oh, vineyard! How good you are and how good are your fruits! Everything you have is good and praiseworthy. Nevertheless, what is the benefit we can reap from you? As one enters, so shall one leave.”

--Ecclesiastes Rabbah 5:20

NOTES

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