Long ago, in a peaceful Yoruba village nestled between rolling hills and thick forests, animals lived happily under the watchful eyes of the Creator. Among them was a proud bat named Ekun. Unlike other animals that came out during the day, Ekun preferred to fly during the bright sunlight. He boasted to all that his wings were stronger and his eyes sharper than any creature’s. Because of this, many animals grew jealous of Ekun’s arrogance.
Ekun’s Jealousy and the Warning
One day, the wise tortoise, known as Ijapa, approached Ekun. “Ekun,” he said, “the Creator made each animal special in its own way. You were meant to fly at night to keep the balance, not to show off in the sun.” But Ekun laughed. “Ijapa, I am better than all of you. Why should I hide in the dark when I can shine under the sun?” His pride blinded him to the wisdom of Ijapa’s words. The animals whispered among themselves, worried that Ekun’s arrogance would bring trouble.
The Punishment from the Creator
The Creator watched Ekun’s boastfulness closely. To teach him a lesson, the Creator sent a thick, dark cloud to cover the sun. Suddenly, Ekun could not see well. His wings, used to the brightness, felt weak. The animals gathered as Ekun stumbled, confused and afraid. The Creator’s voice echoed, “Ekun, because you refused to respect your place, you will fly only at night. Your wings will carry you safely when the sun hides, but you must learn humility and patience.”
Ekun’s Transformation and Acceptance
At first, Ekun was angry and sad. He missed the sun’s warm light and the admiration it brought. However, as nights passed, he discovered the beauty of the moon and stars. Flying under the silver light, he found peace and new strength. He learned to listen and respect other creatures. Slowly, his jealousy faded, replaced by gratitude and wisdom. The other animals welcomed him back with kindness, proud of his change.
The Lasting Lesson of the Bat
From that day forward, Ekun flew only at night. His transformation reminded the village of the dangers of pride and jealousy. The bat’s night flight became a symbol of respect for the Creator’s order and the importance of knowing one’s place. Even today, when the bat swoops silently through the night sky, the Yoruba remember Ekun’s story and the lesson it carries.
Moral Lesson
This tale teaches that arrogance and jealousy bring punishment and hardship, but humility and acceptance lead to wisdom and peace. The story reflects Yoruba values of respect for natural order, patience, and community harmony. It reminds us to honor our roles and listen to wise counsel.
Knowledge Check
- What is the moral of the African folktale “Why the Bat Flies at Night”?
The story teaches that arrogance and jealousy cause trouble, while humility and acceptance bring peace and wisdom. - What cultural group does the African tale “Why the Bat Flies at Night” come from?
This folktale comes from the Yoruba tradition of Nigeria, known for its rich oral storytelling and cultural teachings. - Why did the Creator punish Ekun in “Why the Bat Flies at Night”?
Ekun was punished because he was proud and disrespected the natural order by flying during the day and boasting about his abilities. - How does the folktale “Why the Bat Flies at Night” explain the bat’s behavior?
The story explains that bats fly at night as a result of a punishment for pride, teaching respect for balance and humility. - Is “Why the Bat Flies at Night” an African trickster tale, ghost story, origin myth, or animal fable?
It is an origin myth and animal fable from Yoruba folklore that teaches values through a transformation story. - How is the African folktale “Why the Bat Flies at Night” still relevant today?
The tale remains relevant because it teaches lessons about humility, respecting one’s role, and the dangers of jealousy and pride in any community.
Cultural Origin: Yoruba folktales
