The heartrending stories of the victims of Ponzi schemes bear testimony to the greed of not just the scamster but also of those who were tempted by untenable returns. The latter remind us that greed can start very innocuously. The desire for untenable returns could emerge from perfectly understandable motivations like the need to build a fund for a child’s education. And before one realises it, greed takes its toll.
A folk tale from Rajasthan captures this poignantly. A couple lived a contented life in the interior desert with their young son. They had goats, understood the desert, and were self-sufficient and happy. Occasionally, caravans passed by and the couple generously shared water and food they had with the merchants.
The merchants spoke of different lands and opportunities that lay beyond the desert. They often urged the couple to send their son with them as an apprentice. The couple would initially not hear of it, but soon the wealth of the merchants made them desire a better future for their child. They convinced themselves that it was in the child’s interests to go out into the world, make his fortune and return a rich man.
Having sent the boy away, they became lonely and counted the days for his return. They still offered hospitality to passing merchants but no longer felt so generous. If they earned some money, they reasoned, their son could return earlier. They started charging for the food and accommodation. Soon they eyed the gold, silver and precious stones the caravans carried. They began to steal some of the wealth, telling themselves it was for their son.
One day, when they were caught red-handed, they killed the merchant. Once, a young merchant stopped for the night. He entertained them with stories, ate with great gusto and fell fast asleep. The couple felt some affection for him and vowed it would be the last time they killed a merchant. Alas, they realised too late that the young man was none other than their son.
The grand sire Bhishma held that greed alone was a great monster. It was the base all evil deeds stood upon.