Story summary
Nimi is a generous king who encourages his people to live well. When he wonders about giving and virtuous conduct, the god Sakka helps him explore the question. The charioteer Mātali later arrives to take Nimi to the heavens. Offered a choice of routes, Nimi asks to see the places of suffering as well.
Along the way, Mātali explains how harmful and wholesome actions are connected with the different realms they visit. Nimi returns to his people with a deeper commitment to generosity and ethical living. His journey asks readers to look beyond immediate rewards and consider the direction of their everyday choices.
Themes to explore
- Ethical choices
- Generosity
- Reflection
Read and wonder together
How might a choice we make today affect someone else tomorrow?
New to these tales? Explore our guide to Jātaka stories and reading together.
About the traditional tale
This summary introduces the traditional story. Dharma Trail’s illustrated edition is still being prepared.
Source for grown-ups: Nimi Jātaka, no. 541, in The Jātaka, volume VI, translated by E. B. Cowell and W. H. D. Rouse (1907). The full source includes material for adults.