1. The gazelle and the lamb disputed,
Each said, “I am the most elegant.”

2. They saw the billy goat and thought
The one who grows the longest beard is granted wisdom.

3. They charged him to search through the hills
For a judge whose ruling they’d respect,

4. To examine their claims meticulously,
Hoping he’d give the right its due.

5. Eagerly he set out to search,
Proud of the trust placed in him by both.

6. He said, “I have expansive vision
That will raise the billy goat’s stature among the beasts.

7. For the most deserving of praise
Is he who’s praised by his enemies—

8. And if I summon the wolf as judge,
They cannot contradict his testimony,

9. Since he knows not the gazelle
And cares nothing for the lamb.”

10. Then to the wolf he said, “I ask
That you come with me and take my beard,

11. And let me lead you where they wait.”
He stood between the gazelle and lamb,

12. And said, “I’ll not judge by appearances.”
Then he tore the two deer to shreds with his claws

13. And said to the billy goat, “Go about your business.
No one but your beard killed these two adversaries.”