Is a glowing stone more valuable than wisdom? Is truth more precious than wealth? Answers to such questions came easily to Aushadha Kumar, a Bodhisattva at the court of King Vaideha. A previous incarnation of the wise and compassionate Gautama Buddha, the tale of his life amidst adversity and courtly rivalry defines the Buddhist ideal of right thinking and right living. This priceless gem from the Jataka fables teaches even as it entertains.