The Fisherman and the Greedy King – A Jataka Parable About Happiness and Wealth

Description: This Jataka parable tells the story of a fisherman who teaches a greedy king that happiness does not depend on wealth. The story imparts lessons on humility, wisdom, and the true meaning of life.

Long ago, in a kingdom, there lived a king known for his greed. He was wealthy and could obtain anything he desired, but his thirst for more never waned. The king believed that happiness lay in possessing great treasures and spent his time counting his riches.

One day, while walking along the river, he saw a fisherman sitting by the shore with his fishing rod. The fisherman was singing songs, and a smile adorned his face. Astonished, the king approached him and asked, "Why are you so happy? You have nothing. I, possessing everything, do not feel such joy."

The fisherman smiled and replied, "Your Majesty, I am happy because I have everything I need. The river provides me with fish, the sun warms me, and my songs make my day bright."

The king frowned. "That's nonsense! How can you be content with such a simple life? If you were wealthy, you would understand what true happiness means."

The fisherman responded, "Your Majesty, happiness does not depend on wealth. But if you wish, I am willing to show you."

The king, hurt by the fisherman's words, decided to prove his point. "Very well," he said. "I will give you as much gold as you can carry, and we will see if you remain as happy."

The fisherman agreed. The next day, the king brought him to his treasury. "Take as much as you can carry," he said.

The fisherman gathered as much gold and precious gems as he could carry and set off for home. But soon he realized that his life had changed. He stopped singing and no longer rested by the riverbank. Instead, he feared that his riches would be stolen. He had sleepless nights and found no peace during the day.

After a week, the fisherman returned to the king. "Your Majesty, take your gold back. It has only brought me worry. I have lost my songs, my peace, and the joy of life. Now I understand that happiness is freedom and the ability to enjoy simple things."

The king pondered the fisherman's words. He realized that despite his wealth, he too was unhappy. "You have taught me an important lesson," he said. "From this day forward, I will stop chasing treasures and seek happiness in what I already have."

The fisherman returned to his river, began singing again, and enjoyed his life. The king became wiser and more generous, understanding that happiness cannot be bought.

Moral: Happiness does not depend on wealth. It lies in appreciating simple things and living in harmony with oneself.

Questions for Kids:

• Why was the fisherman happy despite his poverty?
• How did the fisherman's wealth change his life?
• What lesson does this parable teach us?