The Oldest Story Ever Told

 The Tortoise and the Hare is one of Aesop’s most famous fables, traditionally dated to around 620–564 BCE.

That’s over 2600 years ago.

The Tortoise and the Hare started as a recited story, passed down through many generations until it was written down in Greek in the 1st Century.

The fable tells of a boastful hare who mocks a slow-moving tortoise. The tortoise, tired of the hare’s arrogance, challenges him to a race. Confident in his speed, the hare sprints ahead but then takes a nap, assuming victory is guaranteed. Meanwhile, the tortoise keeps a steady pace and, by the time the hare wakes up, has already crossed the finish line.

The fable teaches that consistent effort and perseverance often lead to success, while overconfidence and laziness can cause failure. The famous saying “Slow and steady wins the race” originates from this tale.

This ancient story has been translated into over 250 languages.

Here is the oldest story ever told.

The Tortoise and the Hare

One day, a swift and boastful hare was making fun of a slow-moving tortoise.

“You are so slow! Do you ever get anywhere?” laughed the hare.

The tortoise, tired of the hare’s teasing, replied, “I may be slow, but I can beat you in a race!”

The hare burst into laughter. “A race? With you? I could run circles around you!” But he accepted the challenge.

They set off, with all the animals of the forest gathered to watch. The hare sped ahead quickly, leaving the tortoise far behind. Seeing how much he had already won, the hare decided to take a nap under a shady tree.

Meanwhile, the tortoise kept moving steadily, step by step. He never stopped, never slowed down.

Hours later, the hare woke up and saw the tortoise near the finish line! He dashed forward as fast as he could, but it was too late. The tortoise had already crossed the finish line.

The hare hung his head in shame, while the tortoise smiled and said, “Slow and steady wins the race.”