Long ago, when the world was still new, all the animals lived together in the great forest. Antelopes jumped quickly through the grass, crocodiles swam in the rivers, and leopards crept in the shadows. But there was no elephant yet.
The earth grew tired. She carried mountains, rivers, and trees, and her voice rumbled like thunder:
“Who will help me carry my burden?”
The animals came forward.
Tortoise said, “I am steady, but too small.”
Antelope said, “I am fast, but too light.”
Crocodile said, “I am strong, but only in water.”
None could help. So the earth cried out again, and the wind swirled, the trees bent, and the rivers shook. Out of the soil rose a new creature. His legs were like pillars, his ears spread like leaves, and his trunk stretched like a branch. The earth said:
“Behold, this is Elephant. He shall carry my strength and walk with wisdom.”
From that day, Elephant lived in the forest. His steps were heavy, his memory was long, and he used his strength to help others. He made paths, gave shelter in storms, and guided smaller animals in floods. The people watched in awe and said, “The elephant carries the earth’s strength, and his memory is long because he remembers the beginning of creation.”
Moral of the Story
True strength is shown through patience, wisdom, and kindness.
Word Helper
- Burden – a heavy load.
- Pillars – strong supports, like big columns.
- Awe – a feeling of wonder and respect.
- Creation – the beginning of the world.
- Humility – being strong but not proud.
Summary for Parents/Teachers
This Benga folktale from Corisco Island tells how the elephant came to be, created by the earth herself to carry her strength and balance. In the story, other animals admit their limits, but the earth shapes a new creature who combines strength, patience, and wisdom. The elephant is not only powerful but also gentle and humble, showing children that greatness lies in using strength to protect, not harm.
The elephant symbolizes endurance, memory, and leadership. In African traditions, elephants are often connected with wisdom, respect, and guardianship. This makes the story an excellent teaching tool for values such as responsibility, humility, and helping others.
Parents and teachers can use this story to discuss the idea that every person has unique gifts. Just as the tortoise, antelope, and crocodile each had strengths but could not carry the earth’s burden, children learn that not everyone is suited for the same role. The elephant’s patience and kindness show that true leadership is not about size or power alone, but about caring for others.
In classrooms, the story can be tied to discussions about ecosystems and animal behavior. Elephants, even in real life, are known for long memories, close family bonds, and protective instincts. Linking folklore with real science helps children see the cultural and natural value of the elephant.
By retelling this folktale in a simple way, children learn about respect, responsibility, and the importance of using strengths wisely.
Discussion Time
Want to discuss this with your child? Here are some questions:
- Why did the earth need someone to carry her strength?
- Why couldn’t tortoise, antelope, or crocodile do it?
- What made the elephant different from the other animals?
- How does the elephant use his strength wisely?
Classroom Activity
Let children draw their own version of the elephant rising from the earth. Then ask them to share one “strength” they have and how they can use it to help others.
