THREE QUESTIONS | MODULE - 9

Three Questions – Module 9

NIOS Class 12 English Summary | Key Themes, Moral Lessons & Personal Reflection

📘 Introduction

“Three Questions” by Leo Tolstoy is a timeless philosophical tale included in Module 9 of the NIOS Class 12 English syllabus. The story explores the quest for true wisdom through three powerful questions about time, people, and purpose. Rather than offering direct advice, Tolstoy uses narrative and experience to teach that life’s greatest truths lie in the present moment, in service, and in compassion.

📖 Complete Summary

A king, eager to live wisely and never fail in his duties, sets out to find answers to three essential questions:

  1. What is the right time to begin everything?

  2. Who are the most important people?

  3. What is the most important task?

He consults learned scholars and wise men, but each gives conflicting answers. Unsatisfied, the king seeks out a hermit, known for his simplicity and spiritual insight, hoping to find clarity.

The hermit, instead of offering verbal answers, engages the king in manual labor, digging in his garden. While there, a wounded man stumbles upon them. The king helps the hermit treat and save him. Later, it’s revealed that the man had planned to kill the king but was moved by the king’s kindness. He apologizes, and peace is restored between them.

Through this series of events, the king finds his answers:

  • The right time is now, the present moment.

  • The most important person is whoever you are with at the moment.

  • The most important task is to do good for that person.

These lessons come not through intellectual debate, but through real-life experience, humility, and compassion.

👑 Character Sketches

  • The King – A sincere seeker of wisdom who learns that true leadership lies in compassion and presence.

  • The Hermit – A humble sage who teaches through action, not words.

  • The Wounded Man – A symbol of how enemies can become friends through empathy.

💡 Themes & Moral Lessons

  • Living in the Present: The only time that truly matters is the present moment.

  • Human Connection: The people we are with deserve our full attention and care.

  • Doing Good: Helping others is the most meaningful act we can do.

  • Learning Through Experience: Some truths are best understood through action rather than explanation.

📌 Key Takeaways

  • Wisdom isn’t found in books alone—it’s revealed in everyday acts of kindness.

  • The present moment holds all the power to change lives.

  • Relationships and compassion are more valuable than abstract thinking.

  • Doing good is the greatest purpose of life.

✍️ Personal Reflection

Reading “Three Questions” shifted my perspective on how I approach time, people, and purpose. The story taught me that it’s not about having all the answers, but about showing up with intention and care. Like the king, I now believe that the best time is now, and the greatest use of time is in serving others with kindness. Tolstoy’s message reminds me to live more mindfully and selflessly every day.

📚 Suitable For:

  • NIOS Class 12 English students

  • Value-based literature and moral education

  • Essays on time management, leadership, and kindness

  • Discussions on spiritual and philosophical stories

✅ Related Lessons to Explore:

  • The Necklace – Module 8 – The cost of pride and materialism

  • After Twenty Years – Module 7 – Loyalty vs. duty in friendship

  • Bholi – Module 4 – Finding dignity through education

📄 Disclaimer

This summary is created for educational purposes only, based on the NIOS Class 12 English syllabus. It is an original interpretation and adaptation, designed to support comprehension and value-based learning. Please refer to the official textbook for full content and classroom use.

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