3rd Story
God Sees the Truth but Waits
Leo Tolstoy
God
Sees the Truth but Waits is a short story written by Leo Tolstoy, a famous Russian
writer. The story teaches us about truth, forgiveness, and patience.
About the Writer
Leo Tolstoy (1828–1910) was a famous Russian
writer known for his novels and short stories. He wrote about life, morality,
and human values. His works often teach important lessons about kindness,
truth, and forgiveness.
Setting
The story is set in Russia many years ago. Most of the events happen in a small
town and a distant prison where the main character spends many years. The
setting shows the harsh life and the slow passage of time.
Plot
The story is about a good man named Aksyonov who is falsely accused of murder
and sent to prison. Even though he is innocent, he accepts his fate patiently.
After many years, the real criminal confesses. Aksyonov forgives him and finds
peace, trusting that God will give justice in the right time.
Characters
Aksyonov
– He is the main character. A kind and patient man who is wrongly put in prison
for a crime he didn’t do. Over time, he learns to accept his suffering and
finds peace by trusting God.
Makar
Devushkin – He is the real criminal who committed the murder. He ends up in
the same prison and finally admits his guilt. This confession changes
Aksyonov’s life.
Aksyonov’s
Wife – She believes her husband is innocent. Even though she appears
only a little in the story, her faith and suffering are very important.
Other Prisoners
– There are a few other prisoners who live with Aksyonov. They help show how
Aksyonov changes during his time in jail.
Themes
1.
Faith and Redemption – One of the central themes is the power of faith. Despite
his wrongful imprisonment, Aksionov’s unwavering faith helps him endure and
grow spiritually, showing the redemptive power of trust in God’s plan.
2.
Justice and Patience – The story reflects on the theme of justice, with the
understanding that true justice may not always be immediate but is in God’s
hands. Aksionov learns to wait for God’s timing and accept that divine justice
is perfect.
3.
Forgiveness – Aksionov’s decision to forgive Makar is a key moral
lesson. Despite the betrayal and suffering he has endured, Aksionov chooses
forgiveness, which ultimately leads to his freedom and peace.
4.
The Nature of Suffering – The story explores how suffering, although painful, can be
transformative. Through his years in prison, Aksionov becomes a wiser, more
compassionate person who learns the value of spiritual growth over material
success.
Summary
"God Sees the Truth, But Waits" is a story about a man named Aksionov, a merchant who lives
a peaceful life with his wife and children in Russia. One day, while traveling
to a fair, Aksionov is accused of murder after a fellow merchant is found dead,
and Aksionov’s knife is discovered at the crime scene. Despite his protests of
innocence, he is convicted and sent to a remote Siberian prison. His life is
completely shattered as he loses his family, wealth, and reputation, all while
maintaining his innocence.
Over the years, Aksionov adapts to life in prison. He becomes
known for his good character and spirituality, never seeking revenge or
harboring hatred, even though he suffers greatly. He spends his days working,
praying, and reflecting, growing increasingly devoted to God. Aksionov’s heart
remains pure, and he becomes a respected and patient figure among the other
prisoners, though he still yearns for justice and dreams of one day being
released.
The story takes a pivotal turn when a new prisoner, Makar Devushkin, arrives at the
prison. Makar is a man with a mysterious past, and over time, Aksionov comes to
suspect that he may know something about the murder he was wrongfully accused
of. After many years, Makar finally confesses that he was the one who committed
the crime and framed Aksionov. However, Aksionov, having undergone a profound
spiritual transformation, struggles with the temptation for vengeance but
ultimately decides to forgive Makar. This act of forgiveness symbolizes
Aksionov’s deep faith in God’s will and his release from the burden of anger
and resentment.
In the end, Aksionov’s decision to forgive Makar leads to a
peaceful resolution. Makar, feeling guilty for causing Aksionov’s suffering,
dies shortly after confessing. Aksionov, having come to terms with his wrongful
imprisonment and the pain he endured, finds peace in knowing that God’s justice
is beyond human understanding and that divine truth always prevails. The story
concludes with Aksionov’s acceptance of his fate, recognizing that true freedom
comes not from being released from prison, but from spiritual clarity and
forgiveness.
Understanding the text
a. What bad habits did Aksionov
have before his marriage?
Before his marriage, Aksionov had several bad habits that were
quite common among young men of his time. He was known to be a heavy drinker,
often indulging in alcohol to excess. This excessive drinking led to impulsive
behavior, and on occasion, he would act rashly and irresponsibly. He was also
somewhat hot-tempered, quick to anger, and prone to making hasty decisions
without much thought. These traits caused tension in his life and
relationships, including with his wife, who initially had to deal with his
unpredictable behavior. However, after his marriage, Aksionov reformed his ways
and became more thoughtful, responsible, and devout, focusing on his work and
family rather than his previous vices. His transformation into a patient,
spiritual man became one of the central elements of his character as the story
progressed.
b. What can be the meaning of his
wife’s dream?
In "God Sees the
Truth, But Waits," Aksionov’s
wife’s dream is a prophetic vision that foreshadows the suffering and hardship
that her husband will soon face. In the dream, she sees Aksionov with white
hair and a pale face, symbols of distress and aging, which suggests that he
will undergo a transformative experience—one that will age him and take a
physical and emotional toll. The dream reflects her deep, intuitive fear about
the journey he is about to embark on and hints at the inevitable suffering of
their future. It underscores the themes of fate and the unpredictability of
life, highlighting how certain events, such as Aksionov’s wrongful
imprisonment, are beyond their control, despite the love and concern they
share. The dream acts as a tragic premonition, signaling the trials to come and
marking the beginning of Aksionov’s long and difficult spiritual journey.
c. Why did Aksionov think of
killing himself?
Aksionov thought of killing himself during the early years of his
imprisonment because of the overwhelming despair and injustice he felt. He was
wrongfully accused of murder and had been separated from his family, wealth,
and life as he knew it. The agony of being wrongly imprisoned, coupled with the
loss of everything dear to him, led Aksionov to a moment of deep hopelessness.
He felt as though there was no end to his suffering, and in that dark moment,
the thought of suicide seemed like a way to escape the torment of his wrongful
conviction and his isolation from the world.
However, Aksionov did not act on this impulse. Instead, after
reflecting on his faith and the idea of God's will, he ultimately decided to
endure his suffering rather than give in to despair. This decision marks a
pivotal moment in his spiritual growth, as he shifts from a man full of
bitterness and anger to one who accepts his fate with patience and trust in
God’s plan. His ability to resist the temptation of suicide and endure his
suffering shows the beginning of his transformation into a more spiritually
enlightened and forgiving person.
d. Why did Makar disclose that he
had killed the merchant?
Makar disclosed that he had killed the merchant because he felt
overwhelmed by guilt and remorse after years of living with the secret. When
Makar first arrived at the prison, Aksionov was suspicious of him, but he did
not know for sure that Makar was the true murderer. Over time, Makar became
aware of Aksionov’s deep spiritual transformation and the peaceful, forgiving
attitude that had developed within him despite the injustice he had suffered. This
inner peace and integrity, along with the passage of time, weighed heavily on
Makar’s conscience.
Makar’s guilt eventually reached a breaking point, and he could no
longer live with the burden of knowing that he had wronged an innocent man. In
a moment of confession, Makar admitted to Aksionov that he was the one who had
committed the murder for which Aksionov had been wrongly imprisoned. He
revealed the truth, perhaps in a desire to relieve himself of the guilt and to
seek some form of redemption, knowing that Aksionov had been an unjustly
sentenced man who had endured so much. Makar’s disclosure marked a significant
moment of moral reckoning for him, but also highlighted Aksionov’s deep sense
of forgiveness and spiritual growth, which ultimately led him to let go of
anger and resentment, finding peace in the face of this revelation.
e.
Why doesn’t Aksionov wish to return to his family at the end of the story?
At the end of the story, Aksionov does not wish to return to his
family because he has undergone a profound spiritual transformation during his
years of imprisonment. Throughout his time in the Siberian prison, Aksionov has
grown increasingly devoted to God, accepting his wrongful conviction and
finding peace through patience, forgiveness, and prayer. When he finally learns
the truth about his innocence and the identity of the real murderer, Makar,
Aksionov no longer feels the same attachment to his former life. His physical
appearance has changed, and the life he once knew—his family, his wealth, and
his status—seems distant and irrelevant compared to his inner peace and
spiritual clarity.
Additionally, Aksionov recognizes that his family has likely moved
on without him. His wife may have passed away, and his children have grown up
in his absence. He no longer desires to return to a life that is rooted in
worldly attachments and material concerns. His focus has shifted entirely to
his relationship with God and the fulfillment he finds in living a life of
humility and spiritual understanding. Thus, Aksionov’s decision to remain in
the prison rather than return to his family symbolizes his acceptance of God's
will and the realization that true freedom comes not from physical release, but
from inner peace and faith.
Reference to the context
b. Describe Aksionov’s character.
Aksionov, the protagonist of "God Sees the Truth, But Waits," is a complex character who undergoes significant
transformation throughout the story. At the start, Aksionov is depicted as a
young, impulsive man with a tendency to indulge in alcohol and a quick temper.
He is also somewhat selfish and carefree, focused on enjoying life and pursuing
his business. However, his character begins to evolve after his wrongful
imprisonment for a murder he did not commit.
As he spends years in the harsh Siberian prison, Aksionov
undergoes a profound spiritual transformation. He becomes increasingly patient,
humble, and devout, finding solace in prayer and faith. His earlier
impulsiveness and anger are replaced by a deep sense of inner peace, and he learns
to accept his suffering without bitterness. Aksionov’s character is marked by
his ability to forgive, as seen when he decides to forgive Makar, the man who
wrongfully imprisoned him, even after Makar confesses to the crime. This
forgiveness is a pivotal moment in his spiritual journey, demonstrating his
growth into a wise, compassionate, and selfless man.
Aksionov’s character embodies the themes of patience, faith, and
moral integrity. Despite his wrongful imprisonment and the suffering he
endures, he never seeks revenge or becomes consumed by anger. Instead, he
accepts his fate with grace and trust in God’s justice. By the end of the
story, Aksionov’s character is fully transformed, having moved beyond worldly
concerns and finding true freedom and peace in his spiritual growth. His
journey reflects the power of faith and the potential for redemption, even in
the most unjust and painful circumstances.
c. What is the theme of the story?
The central theme of "God
Sees the Truth, But Waits" is the idea of divine justice and spiritual redemption. The story explores
how true justice may not always be immediately apparent in human terms, but it
is ultimately in God’s hands, and His timing is perfect. Aksionov, the
protagonist, suffers immensely due to his wrongful imprisonment, but through
his suffering, he undergoes a profound spiritual transformation. The theme
emphasizes that patience, faith, and acceptance of one’s fate can lead to inner
peace, even in the most unjust circumstances.
Another important theme in the story is forgiveness. Aksionov, despite
being wrongfully accused and enduring years of hardship, chooses to forgive
Makar, the man who reveals that he was the true murderer. This act of
forgiveness demonstrates Aksionov’s spiritual maturity and his understanding
that vengeance and anger only prolong suffering. The story also highlights the moral consequences of guilt,
as Makar’s confession is motivated by his growing remorse for the wrong he has
done.
Ultimately, the story teaches that suffering can lead to personal growth and redemption. Aksionov’s journey shows how hardship, though painful, can be a
path to spiritual enlightenment, leading to a deeper understanding of faith and
God’s plan. The theme reinforces that while human justice may fail, divine
justice is always true and perfect, and that spiritual growth can bring
freedom, even when physical release from suffering is not possible.
d. Which symbols are used in the
story and what do they indicate?
In "God Sees the
Truth, But Waits," several symbols
are used to convey deeper meanings related to the themes of justice, faith, and
transformation. Here are some key symbols in the story and their significance:
1. Aksionov’s White Hair: Aksionov’s white hair is a powerful symbol in the story. In the
beginning, when his wife dreams of him having white hair, it foreshadows the
years of suffering and hardship he will endure. Over time, the white hair
becomes a symbol of the heavy burden of his wrongful imprisonment, as well as
the passage of time and the spiritual transformation he undergoes. It signifies
his growth into a wiser, more patient, and spiritually enlightened man.
2. The Prison: The prison symbolizes suffering, isolation, and spiritual
testing. While it is a place of punishment and despair, it also serves as the
setting for Aksionov’s spiritual growth. Through his time in prison, Aksionov
learns patience, humility, and the ability to forgive. The prison, therefore,
symbolizes both the physical and spiritual confinement that Aksionov endures,
ultimately leading to his freedom through faith and inner peace.
3. Aksionov’s Beard and
Appearance: Aksionov’s physical appearance, including his beard
and his overall worn-out look, symbolizes the transformation he undergoes. As
he ages and suffers, his appearance reflects his internal changes. By the end
of the story, his outward appearance mirrors the peace and serenity he has
achieved through his faith and forgiveness, showing how his character has
evolved over the years.
4. The Confession of Makar: Makar’s confession symbolizes the weight of guilt and the
possibility of redemption. Makar’s confession to Aksionov reveals his deep
remorse and internal conflict. It also highlights the theme of divine justice,
as Makar’s guilt is exposed at the right moment, allowing Aksionov to make the
choice of forgiveness, which is a key part of his own spiritual growth. The
confession represents the moral consequences of wrongdoing and the potential
for repentance.
5. The Journey to the Fair: Aksionov’s journey to the fair, which begins the chain of events
leading to his wrongful imprisonment, symbolizes the unpredictability of life
and the role of fate in human suffering. It also represents the tension between
worldly concerns and spiritual growth, as Aksionov’s initial focus is on his
business, but his path eventually leads him to a higher spiritual purpose.
Reference beyond the text
a. What role does religion play
in Aksionov’s life? How does he undergo a spiritual transformation in the story?
Religion plays a central role in Aksionov’s life, especially after
his wrongful imprisonment, where it becomes a source of strength, solace, and
transformation. Initially, Aksionov is a young man who enjoys worldly
pleasures, such as drinking and living a carefree life. However, after his
unjust conviction and the harsh years in the Siberian prison, he begins to
undergo a significant spiritual transformation. His faith becomes the anchor
that helps him cope with his suffering and navigate the deep emotional turmoil
of his situation.
Aksionov’s spiritual transformation begins during the early years
of his imprisonment, when he initially struggles with feelings of anger and
despair. He even contemplates suicide, overwhelmed by the unfairness of his
situation. However, he gradually turns to prayer and reflection, seeking solace
in his belief that God has a purpose for his life, even in the midst of
suffering. Over time, his faith deepens, and he becomes increasingly devoted to
God, finding peace in accepting his fate and trusting that divine justice will
prevail, even if it is not immediately visible. This shift from bitterness to
spiritual acceptance marks the beginning of his transformation.
The most significant moment in Aksionov’s spiritual journey comes
when he forgives Makar, the man who confesses to being the true murderer. Despite the
years of unjust suffering Aksionov has endured, he chooses not to seek revenge.
Instead, he prays for Makar and forgives him, demonstrating his spiritual
growth. This act of forgiveness shows Aksionov’s understanding that vengeance
is not the path to salvation, and that true freedom and peace come from
trusting in God’s will. By the end of the story, Aksionov has undergone a
complete transformation. His inner peace, patience, and forgiveness reflect his
deep faith, and he no longer desires to return to his former life or family. He
recognizes that spiritual clarity and redemption are more meaningful than
material success or physical freedom.
Aksionov’s spiritual journey reflects the theme that suffering can
lead to spiritual enlightenment, and through his deepening faith, he transcends
his wrongful imprisonment. His religion ultimately becomes the source of his
inner freedom, allowing him to endure hardship with grace and to experience
true liberation in his heart.
b. What does the story tell us
about the existence of an unfair system of justice?
"God Sees the Truth, But Waits" highlights the existence of an unfair system of justice
through Aksionov's wrongful imprisonment, illustrating how human systems of
justice can fail to deliver fairness. Aksionov is accused of a crime he did not
commit—the murder of a fellow merchant—and despite his innocence, he is
convicted and sent to a remote Siberian prison. His experience reveals how easily
the legal system can be swayed by circumstantial evidence, personal bias, or
the failure to conduct a proper investigation, leading to the wrongful
suffering of an innocent man.
The story critiques the limitations and imperfections of human
justice, showing that it can be blind to the truth, especially in the absence
of clear evidence or when individuals are quick to make assumptions. Aksionov’s
long years in prison, away from his family and home, are a painful reminder of
the flaws in the justice system. The fact that the true murderer, Makar, is
only revealed years later highlights how justice can be delayed or denied
altogether in an unfair system.
However, the story also suggests that while human justice is
fallible, divine justice is always perfect. The idea that "God sees the truth,
but waits" emphasizes that, although earthly justice may fail, there is a
higher moral order at play. Aksionov’s journey toward spiritual enlightenment,
and his eventual decision to forgive Makar, demonstrates that true justice is
not always immediate or visible in the physical world, but it ultimately aligns
with a greater divine plan that transcends human error. This offers a sense of
hope and redemption, showing that, even in an unfair system, there can be
eventual moral clarity and reconciliation.
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