In the wake of recent situation-reports concerning the escalating tensions between the United States-Israel and Iran, I am reminded of a thought-provoking fable narrated by Paulo Coelho, the Nobel-laureate author, in his book Maktub. The story carries a timeless lesson about the dangers of misreading power, prophecy, and ambition—one that seems particularly relevant in today’s volatile geopolitical climate.
The fable, as narrated by the author, is as follows:
Croesus, the king of Lydia, was determined to attack the Persians, but, nevertheless, he decided to consult the Greek oracle of Delphi first.
“You are destined to destroy a great empire,” said the oracle.
Pleased with this verdict, Croesus declared war. After two days of fighting, Lydia was invaded by the Persians, who sacked the capital city and took Croesus himself prisoner. Outraged, Croesus ordered his ambassador in Greece to go back to the oracle and say that they had been deceived.
“No, you were not deceived”, replied the oracle. “You did destroy a great empire: Lydia.” (Islamabad)
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
The writer is retired Chairman of the State Engineering Corporation and former Chairman of the Institution of Engineers, Pakistan
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