Story summary
Vidhura is a counsellor whose teaching is admired by humans and nāgas alike. A nāga queen wishes to hear his wisdom, but her request for his heart is taken literally. Puṇṇaka wins the right to take Vidhura away in a game of dice and carries him far from the court.
Facing danger, Vidhura remains composed and teaches Puṇṇaka about gratitude and right conduct. When the misunderstanding is uncovered, he is brought safely to the nāga realm to share his teaching, then returns home. His story shows how truthful, thoughtful speech can change a relationship built on fear.
Themes to explore
- Truthfulness
- Wisdom
- Gratitude
Read and wonder together
How can we tell the truth in a way that helps someone understand?
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: Vidhurapaṇḍita Jātaka, no. 545, in The Jātaka, volume VI, translated by E. B. Cowell and W. H. D. Rouse (1907). The full source includes material for adults.