Three-questions-class-11-english-summary-questions-and-answers-chse
SUMMARY
Leo Tolstoy’s “Three Questions” is a short story about a king who believes that if he always knew the right time to act, the right people to listen to, and the most important thing to do, he would never fail. He seeks answers from wise men, but none satisfy him. Finally, he visits a hermit known for his wisdom.
While with the hermit, the king ends up helping a wounded man who had come to kill him out of revenge. By saving his life, the king turns an enemy into a friend. The king then realizes the answers:
The most important time is now, because it is the only moment we truly have.
The most important person is the one you are with at the present moment, because we may not meet them again.
The most important action is to do good to the person you are with, because that is the purpose of life.
Theme
The story highlights the importance of living in the present moment, valuing human relationships, and doing good to others. Tolstoy teaches that wisdom is not about abstract theories but about compassion, kindness, and right action in daily life. The story also shows how humility, forgiveness, and service to others bring true peace and happiness.
SHORT QUESTION ANSWERS
Q1. What was the first question the king wanted to know?
Ans. The first question was: What is the right time to begin every action? He wanted to act at the correct moment so that he would never fail in his duties.
Q2. What was the second question of the king?
Ans. The second question was: Who are the most important people to listen to? The king wanted to know whose advice he should value the most.
Q3. What was the third question of the king?
Ans. The third question was: What is the most important thing to do? The king wanted to know the best action for success and peace.
Q4. Whom did the king first approach for answers?
Ans. The king first approached wise men in his kingdom. He promised to reward them if they could give correct answers to his three questions.
Q5. Why was the king dissatisfied with the wise men’s answers?
Ans. The wise men gave different and conflicting answers to each question. This confused the king, and he was not satisfied.
Q6. Whose advice did the king finally seek?
Ans. The king finally decided to consult a hermit, who was known for his wisdom and simplicity.
Q7. Where did the hermit live?
Ans. The hermit lived in a hut in the woods. He was a simple man who lived alone and spent his life meditating.
Q8. How did the hermit receive the king?
Ans. The hermit was digging the ground when the king arrived. He listened to the king silently and continued his work, without giving direct answers.
Q9. What did the king do when the hermit was tired?
Ans. The king took the spade from the hermit and dug the ground himself, helping the hermit with his work.
Q10. Who came running to the hermit’s hut wounded?
Ans. A bearded man, badly wounded, came running towards the hermit’s hut, bleeding heavily from a stomach wound.
Q11. How did the king save the wounded man?
Ans. The king washed the wound, bandaged it, and stayed awake at night to look after the man until he recovered.
Q12. Why was the wounded man the king’s enemy?
Ans. The man had planned to kill the king, because the king had once punished him and taken away his property.
Q13. How did the wounded man feel after being saved?
Ans. The wounded man felt grateful and ashamed. He forgave the king, promised to serve him, and became his friend.
Q14. What lesson did the king learn from the hermit?
Ans. The hermit explained that the present moment is the most important, the person we are with is the most important, and doing good is the most important task.
Q15. Why is the present moment important?
Ans. The present moment is the only time we have power to act. Past and future are not in our control.
Q16. Who is the most important person according to the hermit?
Ans. The most important person is the one with whom we are at that very moment, because we can help or harm only them.
Q17. What is the most important work in life?
Ans. The most important work is to do good to the person we are with, since that is our duty at the moment.
Q18. How did the hermit teach the king the answers?
Ans. Instead of directly answering, the hermit created situations with the wounded man, which gave the king practical experience and understanding of the answers.
Q19. What moral lesson does the story give?
Ans. The story teaches that time, people, and good deeds are the essence of life. Living in the present and doing good brings peace.
Q20. Why is this story considered timeless?
Ans. It addresses universal human concerns—time, relationships, and moral duty—making its message valuable across ages and cultures.
LONG QUESTION AND ANSWER
Q1. What were the king’s three questions and why were they important to him?
Ans. The king’s three questions were: (i) What is the right time to begin everything? (ii) Who are the most important people to listen to? (iii) What is the most important thing to do? He wanted their answers because he believed that if he always acted at the right time, listened to the right people, and did the right things, he would never fail in life. As a ruler, he faced difficulties in making decisions, so he wanted definite guidance. Many wise men gave different answers, but the king found them confusing and unsatisfactory. Finally, he went to a hermit, who was known for his wisdom, simplicity, and humility. The questions were important to him because they could provide clarity in governance, war, and personal life. He wanted certainty to ensure his kingdom’s success and peace. The questions reflect human curiosity about time, relationships, and priorities. Ultimately, the king discovered that the most important time is “now,” the most important person is “the one you are with,” and the most important action is “to do good.” These truths helped him understand the real meaning of life.
Q2. How did the king try to find the answers to his questions?
Ans. The king was determined to find the answers to his three questions. First, he sent messengers across the kingdom to announce a great reward for anyone who could provide correct answers. Many wise men came and suggested different things. Some said the best time was to plan ahead, others said it was to act immediately, and some said to consult magicians. Regarding the most important people, some said doctors, others said priests, and some said soldiers or ministers. On the most important action, answers varied between science, religion, and warfare. The king, however, was dissatisfied because none of these answers seemed universally true. At last, he decided to seek the advice of a hermit known for his wisdom. The hermit lived a simple life in the forest and met only common people. The king disguised himself in simple clothes and went alone, leaving his bodyguards behind. Instead of asking directly for advice, the king helped the hermit with his work, digging the ground. This way, he hoped to earn the hermit’s wisdom. Finally, through experience and events, the king found the real answers. His effort to seek knowledge shows his humility and determination as a ruler.
Q3. Why did the king go to the hermit and how did the hermit respond to his questions?
Ans. The king went to the hermit because he was dissatisfied with the answers given by the wise men of his kingdom. The hermit was famous for his wisdom and honesty, but he only met simple people and refused to deal with kings or nobles. So the king disguised himself in plain clothes and went alone without soldiers. On meeting the hermit, he asked his three questions, but the hermit did not answer directly. Instead, he continued digging the ground in front of his hut. The king offered to help him, and together they worked silently. Each time the king repeated his questions, the hermit remained quiet and did not give a reply. The hermit’s silence was not ignorance but a way of teaching the king that wisdom often comes from actions, not words. Later, when the wounded man arrived, the hermit again remained silent, allowing the king to learn through his own experiences. Finally, after the king saved the enemy soldier’s life, the hermit explained that the king had already found the answers. Thus, the hermit responded indirectly by guiding the king to realize the truth himself.
Q4. Describe the incident of the wounded man. How did it change the king’s understanding?
Ans. While the king was with the hermit, a bearded man came running out of the forest, bleeding heavily from a stomach wound. The man had been injured by the king’s bodyguards after plotting to kill the king. The king immediately set aside his questions and began nursing the man. He washed the wound, bandaged it with his own clothes, and stayed with him throughout the night, preventing him from dying. The next morning, the man confessed that he was once an enemy of the king. The king had executed his brother and seized his property, so he had planned to take revenge. But when the king saved his life, the man’s heart changed. He apologized and offered to serve the king as a loyal friend. This incident deeply impacted the king. He realized that by helping the wounded man in the present moment, he had found the answers to his questions. The most important time had been when he treated the man, the most important person was the man in front of him, and the most important action was showing kindness. The wounded man’s transformation helped the king understand the true meaning of life’s priorities.
Q5. What lessons did the king finally learn from his experience with the hermit?
Ans. From his experience, the king learned three valuable lessons. First, he realized that the most important time is the present moment. Past and future are beyond human control, and only the present gives an opportunity to act. Second, the most important person is the one you are with at that moment, because no one can be certain if they will meet again. Thus, valuing people around us is essential. Third, the most important work is to do good to others, because human life’s true purpose is to help and serve. The king also learned that wisdom often comes from action, not from endless words or theories. By nursing the wounded man, he discovered the power of compassion and forgiveness. The hermit’s indirect way of teaching made him realize that real answers come through experiences. The king understood that leadership is not about power or control but about kindness, responsibility, and service. These lessons gave him peace of mind and a new way of ruling his kingdom. The story, therefore, conveys a universal message about time, relationships, and good deeds, which remain relevant for all people and all generations.
Q6. Why did the hermit not answer the king directly? What does this show about true wisdom?
Ans. The hermit did not answer the king directly because he believed that wisdom cannot always be taught in words; it must be realized through experience. When the king asked his questions, the hermit remained silent and continued digging the ground. By making the king work, he indirectly showed him the value of patience, humility, and action. Later, when the wounded man appeared, the hermit again stayed quiet, allowing the king to learn the answers by saving the man’s life. This teaching style shows that true wisdom is not theoretical but practical. Real understanding comes from applying knowledge in real-life situations. The hermit knew that the king, as a ruler, needed to learn by doing, not just by listening. His silence and actions were deliberate, meant to guide the king towards self-realization. It shows that true wisdom is simple and rooted in love, compassion, and timely action. The hermit wanted the king to realize that answers are already within us; we only need to observe life carefully. Thus, the hermit’s method teaches that wisdom is not about speaking big words but about living truthfully and meaningfully.
Q7. How did the king show humility during his visit to the hermit?
Ans. The king showed humility in several ways during his visit to the hermit. First, he removed his royal dress and went in simple clothes without guards or attendants, even though he was a ruler. This showed that he respected the hermit’s preference for simplicity. Second, instead of commanding the hermit, he politely asked his questions and even offered help when the hermit appeared tired from digging. The king took the spade and worked hard to dig the ground, despite being unaccustomed to such labor. He continued to help without complaint, showing that he valued the hermit’s presence more than his own comfort. Later, when the wounded man came, the king again displayed humility by bandaging the man’s wounds with his own clothes and staying awake all night to care for him. Instead of being angry at his enemy, he forgave him and accepted his apology. These actions prove that the king was not arrogant, but genuinely seeking wisdom with an open heart. His humility allowed him to learn life’s greatest lessons. The story teaches that true greatness comes when leaders are humble enough to serve others with compassion.
Q8. How does the story “Three Questions” emphasize the importance of the present moment?
Ans. The story strongly emphasizes the value of living in the present. The king’s first question was about the right time for every action. In the end, the hermit explained that the most important time is “now.” The king experienced this truth when he nursed the wounded man. Had he ignored the man and left, the man would have died, and he would have lost a chance to save an enemy’s life and gain a friend. This shows that every decision in the present affects the future. Similarly, when the king helped the hermit dig the ground, he unknowingly performed the most important action at that moment. The story teaches that worrying about the past or future is useless because only the present moment is under human control. By acting wisely in the present, one can shape a better future. The wounded man’s change of heart also happened because of the king’s timely kindness. Thus, the story conveys that focusing on the present allows us to live fully, build better relationships, and perform good deeds. It is a reminder that the present is the only time we truly possess.
Q9. How is forgiveness portrayed in the story?
Ans. Forgiveness plays a central role in “Three Questions.” The wounded man initially hated the king because the king had executed his brother and seized his property. He had even planned to kill the king as revenge. However, after being injured by the king’s guards and saved by the king himself, his heart completely changed. The man confessed his intentions and begged for forgiveness. Instead of punishing him, the king forgave him wholeheartedly. Not only did he forgive, but he also promised to return his property and send doctors to care for him. This act of forgiveness transformed an enemy into a loyal friend. The story highlights how kindness and compassion can dissolve hatred and enmity. Forgiveness is shown not as weakness, but as the greatest strength a ruler can possess. It prevents further violence and creates peace. The king’s action also reflects moral leadership, where love and understanding replace revenge. Through this event, Leo Tolstoy teaches that forgiving others and doing good leads to harmony, while holding grudges only creates more suffering. Forgiveness, therefore, is one of the highest virtues illustrated in the story.
Q10. In what way is “Three Questions” a moral and philosophical story?
Ans. “Three Questions” is both moral and philosophical because it deals with universal truths about life. The king’s three questions reflect deep human concerns—time, relationships, and priorities. Philosophically, they ask: When should we act? Who should we value most? What should we focus on in life? Different wise men gave different answers, showing the complexity of these issues. However, the hermit’s indirect teaching revealed that life’s answers are simple: the present is the most important time, the person in front of you is the most important, and doing good is the most important action. This conveys the moral lesson that kindness, humility, and service are greater than power and pride. The story also reflects Tolstoy’s philosophy of life—simplicity, love, and compassion as guiding principles. By saving his enemy, the king understood that forgiveness and service create peace. Thus, the story blends moral teaching with philosophical thought, making it timeless and universal. Its message is relevant for all people because it teaches how to live wisely and meaningfully.
Q11. How does the story reflect the qualities of true leadership?
Ans. The story presents the king as a ruler who genuinely seeks wisdom to govern his kingdom better. His questions show that he values timing, relationships, and priorities, which are essential qualities of a leader. Instead of relying solely on his power, he humbly seeks guidance from wise men and later from the hermit. His willingness to dress simply and work alongside the hermit proves his humility. True leadership is also reflected in his compassion and forgiveness. When the wounded man, once an enemy, lay before him, the king chose not to punish but to heal. He bandaged the man’s wounds, stayed up all night, and forgave him, turning hostility into friendship. This shows that true leaders must prioritize humanity above pride. The hermit, too, symbolizes leadership in simplicity, teaching without words but through action. The king’s transformation shows that leadership is about serving others, valuing the present, and doing good. In the end, the king learns that the most important role of a leader is to act wisely in the moment, care for the people around him, and work for the welfare of others. This makes the story a guide for ethical and compassionate leadership.
Q12. Explain how the king’s questions are universal and relevant even today.
Ans. The king’s three questions—about the right time to act, the most important person, and the most important work—are not limited to his reign but apply universally to all human beings. In modern life, people constantly struggle with time management, relationships, and priorities. We often wonder when the right time is to take important decisions, whether in studies, career, or personal life. Similarly, deciding who matters most—family, friends, colleagues, or society—is still a universal dilemma. The third question about the most important work remains relevant as people continue to debate whether to focus on wealth, knowledge, power, or service. The hermit’s answers—live in the present, value the person before you, and do good—remain timeless lessons. In today’s fast-paced, competitive world, people often forget to live in the present and appreciate those around them. The story reminds us to slow down, focus on now, and prioritize kindness. Its universal message makes it as meaningful in the 21st century as it was during Tolstoy’s time. The three questions, therefore, represent timeless wisdom that guides humans to live purposefully, maintain harmony, and contribute positively to society.
Q13. How did the wounded man’s change of heart highlight the theme of compassion?
Ans. The wounded man’s transformation is central to the story’s theme of compassion. Initially, he was an enemy of the king, filled with hatred and vengeance because the king had executed his brother and seized his property. He came secretly to kill the king but was instead wounded by the king’s guards. When the king discovered him, he did not react with anger or punishment. Instead, he washed and bandaged the man’s wounds, stayed up all night caring for him, and even gave him water to drink. This act of unconditional kindness surprised the wounded man. He realized that instead of taking revenge, he had been saved by the very person he hated. His heart changed, and he sincerely begged the king’s forgiveness, promising loyalty and service in return. The king forgave him and promised to restore his land and provide medical care. This episode shows that compassion can turn enmity into friendship, and hatred into peace. Tolstoy conveys that love and kindness have the power to heal more than revenge or punishment. The wounded man’s change of heart highlights the story’s core message—that compassion is the greatest human virtue.
Q14. Discuss the symbolic role of the hermit in the story.
Ans. The hermit in “Three Questions” is not just a character but a symbol of wisdom, simplicity, and truth. Unlike the wise men in the king’s court who gave complicated answers, the hermit offered no direct response. Instead, he represented the idea that true knowledge lies in simplicity and action. Living away from luxury, in a small hut, he symbolizes detachment from worldly desires. His refusal to answer directly teaches that wisdom cannot always be given in words—it must be realized through experience. The hermit also acts as a guide for the king, showing him through silence and action how to discover life’s truths. His digging of the ground while ignoring the king’s repeated questions symbolizes that action is more powerful than mere talk. By allowing the king to nurse the wounded man, he made him understand the importance of living in the present, valuing people, and doing good. Symbolically, the hermit represents moral conscience and spiritual guidance. He stands for the eternal truth that wisdom lies not in theories but in love, compassion, and timely action. Thus, the hermit is the spiritual light of the story.
Q15. Why can “Three Questions” be considered a story about human values?
Ans. The story highlights essential human values such as humility, compassion, forgiveness, and responsibility. The king, despite his royal power, seeks wisdom humbly by consulting a hermit. His willingness to work like a common man reflects humility. Compassion is shown when he bandages the wounded man’s injuries and nurses him back to health. Forgiveness is displayed when he not only forgives his enemy but also promises to restore his property and provide medical help. The hermit embodies simplicity and truth, reminding readers that life’s greatest lessons are not about wealth or power but about humanity. The answers to the king’s questions—value the present, value people, and do good—are also based on moral values. They encourage individuals to live with awareness, kindness, and responsibility. The story conveys that real success in life is not measured by power or possessions but by how one treats others. By following these values, individuals can achieve peace and harmony. Therefore, “Three Questions” can rightly be seen as a story that teaches timeless human values which are essential for building a good life and a just society.
Q16. Compare the answers of the wise men and the hermit. What does this show?
Ans. The wise men gave answers that were practical but lacked universality. Some said the best time was to plan in advance, others said to consult magicians. Regarding important people, some suggested doctors, others priests, or counselors. On the most important action, some chose science, others religious worship, or military strength. These answers were diverse but confusing because they depended on situations rather than providing timeless guidance. The hermit, however, gave simple yet universal answers. He explained that the most important time is “now,” the most important person is “the one you are with,” and the most important work is “to do good.” Unlike the wise men, his answers applied to all situations and all people. This comparison shows that theoretical knowledge often complicates life, while true wisdom lies in simplicity. The wise men focused on external solutions, but the hermit guided the king inward, toward moral truth. It shows that wisdom does not lie in intellectual debates but in recognizing basic human values. The difference highlights Tolstoy’s belief that life’s greatest truths are simple and accessible, but often overlooked in the search for complicated answers.
Q17. How does the story highlight the theme of service to others?
Ans. Service to others is a central theme of “Three Questions.” The king discovers that the true purpose of life is not power, wealth, or control, but doing good for others. His service begins when he helps the hermit dig the ground, even though he is a king unaccustomed to manual labor. This act shows humility and willingness to serve. Later, when the wounded man arrives, the king does not hesitate to serve him, washing and dressing his wounds with his own hands. He even stays up all night to ensure the man survives. This selfless act transforms the enemy into a friend. The hermit also represents service, living simply and helping people without desire for recognition or reward. Through these actions, the story teaches that service to others builds peace, trust, and friendship. It is the highest duty of human beings and especially of rulers. Tolstoy emphasizes that helping others in the present moment is the most important action. The story highlights that by serving others, we serve humanity and find real meaning in life. Service, therefore, is portrayed as the noblest human duty.
Q18. What role does fate play in the story “Three Questions”?
Ans. Fate plays an indirect but significant role in the story. The king’s desire to find answers leads him to the hermit, where he coincidentally meets the wounded man. This unexpected encounter changes the entire course of events. Had the king not visited the hermit, he would never have met his enemy or had the chance to save him. The wounded man had planned to kill the king, but fate brought him injured and helpless before the king. Instead of a deadly confrontation, the situation turned into one of forgiveness and friendship. This suggests that fate often brings people together in unexpected ways. However, Tolstoy emphasizes that while fate creates opportunities, it is human actions in the present moment that truly matter. The king could have left the hermit and ignored the wounded man, but his compassionate actions changed fate into friendship. Thus, the story shows a balance between destiny and free will—fate creates circumstances, but it is human kindness and timely action that give meaning to life. Fate, therefore, serves as the background, while moral choices shape the outcome.
Q19. How does “Three Questions” teach the importance of living with awareness?
Ans. The story teaches that living with awareness means being fully present in the moment and understanding our responsibilities. The king’s first question was about the right time, and the hermit’s answer—that the most important time is now—highlights the value of awareness. Many people waste their lives regretting the past or worrying about the future, but Tolstoy emphasizes that the present moment is all we truly have. The king’s awareness grew when he realized that nursing the wounded man at that time was the most important act. Similarly, the hermit’s digging, though simple, represented living fully in the moment without distraction. Awareness also includes valuing the people around us. The king learned that the most important person is the one he is with at the present. By becoming aware of this, he was able to transform his enemy into a friend. The story urges readers to avoid unnecessary distractions and focus on present duties with compassion. Living with awareness allows people to make wise choices, build meaningful relationships, and lead a purposeful life. It is the essence of wisdom conveyed in this story.
Q20. What is the overall message of Leo Tolstoy’s “Three Questions”?
Ans. The overall message of “Three Questions” is simple yet profound: live in the present, value the people around you, and always do good. Through the king’s quest, the story shows that human beings often complicate life by seeking definite rules or magical solutions. True wisdom, however, lies in simplicity and moral values. The hermit’s teachings reveal that the present moment is the only time under human control, so it must be used wisely. The story also conveys that human relationships are most precious, and the person in front of us deserves our full attention and care. Finally, it emphasizes that kindness and service to others are the noblest actions one can perform. By saving his enemy, the king not only answered his questions but also found peace and friendship. The story, therefore, conveys universal truths about time, relationships, and morality that remain relevant for all generations. Tolstoy’s message is that real success in life is not about wealth or power but about love, compassion, and service. It is a timeless lesson for humanity to live wisely and meaningfully.
