The Other Wise Man | A Christmas Story for Kids With Audio
Listen To The Other Wise Man, A Best Of Christmas Stories For Kid (Audio)
Introduction
Once upon a time, in the ancient lands of Persia, there lived a wise man named Artaban. Like the three Magi, Artaban had studied the stars and believed the brightest one foretold the birth of a great King. But Artaban’s journey was different, filled with detours of kindness and sacrifice that made his story unforgettable.
Artaban’s Preparation
Artaban sold all his possessions to buy gifts for the newborn King: a sapphire, a ruby, and a pearl of great price. With his treasures in hand, he planned to meet the other Magi and journey together to find the King.
But on his way to the meeting point, Artaban encountered a dying man by the roadside. The man begged for help, and though it delayed him, Artaban used his sapphire to buy medicine and care. By the time Artaban arrived, the other wise men had gone, and he was left to travel alone.
A Journey of Giving
For years, Artaban traveled in search of the King. Along the way, he found himself in situations where he could not ignore the needs of others.
- In Bethlehem, he arrived just as King Herod’s soldiers were carrying out their cruel orders. To save a child, Artaban gave away his ruby to bribe the soldiers.
- Later, in a distant city, he used his pearl to buy freedom for a young woman enslaved by a cruel merchant.
Each time, Artaban questioned whether he would ever meet the King.
The Final Encounter
Decades passed, and Artaban grew old. He eventually found himself in Jerusalem during Passover. Rumors of a man called Jesus, who some believed to be the promised King, reached his ears. But before Artaban could meet Him, the earth shook violently. A falling tile struck Artaban, and he lay dying.
In his final moments, he lamented that he had failed to meet the King and give his gifts. But then, a radiant voice spoke to him:
“Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these, you did it to Me.”
Artaban realized that through his acts of kindness, he had served the King all along.
Conclusion
Artaban’s journey teaches us that true greatness lies not in grand gestures but in everyday acts of love and sacrifice.
Comprehension Questions
- What treasures did Artaban prepare for the newborn King?
- Why did Artaban miss his meeting with the other Magi?
- How did Artaban use his treasures throughout his journey?
- What lesson does Artaban learn in the end?
- How can we practice kindness in our daily lives?
Moral of the Story
The story of Artaban reminds us that kindness and compassion are the greatest gifts we can give. Helping others is a way of honoring the divine in all of us.
Important Note
The story “The Other Wise Man” by Henry Van Dyke is a timeless classic that inspires kindness and selflessness. This adaptation simplifies the tale for young readers while preserving its profound message. We do not claim authorship of the original story but aim to share its essence in an accessible and engaging way for kids. Visit us more often for more such amazing Christmas stories for kids.
