The Story of the Other Wise Man

"The Story of the Other Wise Man" by Henry Van Dyke is a thought-provoking story that tells of Artaban, the Fourth Wise Man, and his venture to find the newborn King illuminated by a heavenly sign. Artaban prepares costly jewels as gifts, selling all he owns to obtain them; however, his journey takes a different path than the other Magi because he stops repeatedly to offer help, pushing him off course from his original destination. He sacrifices his precious jewels to aid the less fortunate along his way, showing the power of human kindness. Through caring for the sick and rescuing the oppressed, he makes the ultimate sacrifice, teaching that showing love embodies the true essence of devotion—even if it means he can't meet Jesus in person. Ultimately, Artaban learns that serving others was the real quest rather than just finding the King.