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The Story of the Other Wise Man [with Biographical Introduction]
On the centennial of its first publication, The Story of the Other Wise Man still glows with the eternal essence of Christmas, which is love.
39 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1895
234 people are currently reading
2438 people want to read
About the author
Henry Van Dyke
904 books81 followersHenry Van Dyke (1852-1933) was an American Presbyterian clergyman, educator, and author. He graduated from Princeton in 1873, and from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1874. He was pastor of the Brick Presbyterian Church, New York City (1883-99), professor of English literature at Princeton (1899-1923), and U.S. minister to the Netherlands (1913-16).
Among his popular inspirational writings is the Christmas story The Other Wise Man (1896). As President Wilson's ambassador to the Netherlands from 1913, Van Dyke was a first-hand witness to the outbreak of World War I and its progress, and was a key player in the President's diplomatic efforts to keep the U.S. out of the conflict.
Not to be confused with his father, Henry J. Van Dyke (1822-1891).
For more information, please see http://www.answers.com/topic/van-dyke...
Among his popular inspirational writings is the Christmas story The Other Wise Man (1896). As President Wilson's ambassador to the Netherlands from 1913, Van Dyke was a first-hand witness to the outbreak of World War I and its progress, and was a key player in the President's diplomatic efforts to keep the U.S. out of the conflict.
Not to be confused with his father, Henry J. Van Dyke (1822-1891).
For more information, please see http://www.answers.com/topic/van-dyke...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 466 reviews
December 23, 2017
4.5 stars
I have been fortunate this year in that I have found some wonderfully satisfying short stories that in their brevity still deliver such powerful messages. This is true for The Story of the Other Wise Man, written more than a century ago by Henry Van Dyke. Van Dyke tells the reader that he had always loved the tales of the Three Wise Men; one day the story of this fourth Wise Man came to him "out of the air, perhaps… It was a gift." And it is a gift that I am thankful he shared with us. Artaban belonged to the ancient priesthood of the Magi. He is to join the other three Wise Men at an appointed time following the appearance of a certain shining star in the night sky. They will journey together to honor the birth of their King. His journey is one of sacrifice and service to mankind. Will he in the end reach his destination? You have to read this beautiful, moving story to find out. This tale is one that would touch anyone that struggles with the question of whether or not they are on the right path. A perfect little book for the holiday season.
"He knew that all was well, because he had done the best that he could, from day to day. He had been true to the light that had been given to him."
I have been fortunate this year in that I have found some wonderfully satisfying short stories that in their brevity still deliver such powerful messages. This is true for The Story of the Other Wise Man, written more than a century ago by Henry Van Dyke. Van Dyke tells the reader that he had always loved the tales of the Three Wise Men; one day the story of this fourth Wise Man came to him "out of the air, perhaps… It was a gift." And it is a gift that I am thankful he shared with us. Artaban belonged to the ancient priesthood of the Magi. He is to join the other three Wise Men at an appointed time following the appearance of a certain shining star in the night sky. They will journey together to honor the birth of their King. His journey is one of sacrifice and service to mankind. Will he in the end reach his destination? You have to read this beautiful, moving story to find out. This tale is one that would touch anyone that struggles with the question of whether or not they are on the right path. A perfect little book for the holiday season.
"He knew that all was well, because he had done the best that he could, from day to day. He had been true to the light that had been given to him."
December 25, 2023
In a Nutshell: A classic novella about a fourth Magi, who discerns the heavenly signs correctly but gets delayed on his journey. A lovely read for classic fiction lovers. Will work even better if you know any of the gospels.
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Story Synopsis:
I had read a simplified adaptation of this story in one of my Christmas collections when I was a middle grader. Then I forgot all about the existence of this tale. While looking up Christmas short stories online, I found this title and my mind immediately went into nostalgia mode. In a way, this can be termed a reread, but to be fair, this was my first time reading the unabridged version.
My reading experience was pretty good, though not as satisfying as I had expected. The story is, of course, perfect for the season. It conveys what the true Christian spirit is all about, summed up in the golden rule of ‘Do unto others as you would like others to do unto you.’
This novella was originally published in 1895, and the writing reflects the era. The style is typically classic, with extended descriptions of the location. I might have enjoyed the tale more had the descriptions been less verbose. But the detailing of the setting and the atmosphere is so much that the core plot gets obscured at times.
To Christian readers who enjoy classic works, this story ought to be a beautiful experience. I feel you'll appreciate the writing better if you are a believer, as it has many biblical references and only if you know the Bible will you be able to recognise those Easter eggs. (Easter eggs in a Christmas story – Just imagine!)
Even if you aren't aware of the gospels but are fond of classic short stories, you might like this one, but you could miss out on the deeper intent of the author as your understanding would be restricted to the words without getting their allusions.
All in all, a good enough read for those looking for a deeper and meaningful Christmas story with a strong religious flavour and description-intensive writing.
3.75 stars.
As this story is in the public domain, you can read it free of cost on various sites online. I read it from the below link:
https://americanliterature.com/author...
Happy Christmas, everyone! 🎄💖
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Connect with me through:
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Story Synopsis:
Artaban is a young wise man, and one of the priests of the Magi. Using his knowledge of astrology, he discerns that the ancient prophecy about the birth of the redeemer is due to take place soon. He rushes to join his three fellow Magi, departing from another location, to look for the guiding star that will lead them to the newborn king. However, Artaban’s pilgrimage is beset with hurdles. Will he be able to fulfil his quest and find the saviour?
The story is written in the limited third person perspective of Artaban.
I had read a simplified adaptation of this story in one of my Christmas collections when I was a middle grader. Then I forgot all about the existence of this tale. While looking up Christmas short stories online, I found this title and my mind immediately went into nostalgia mode. In a way, this can be termed a reread, but to be fair, this was my first time reading the unabridged version.
My reading experience was pretty good, though not as satisfying as I had expected. The story is, of course, perfect for the season. It conveys what the true Christian spirit is all about, summed up in the golden rule of ‘Do unto others as you would like others to do unto you.’
This novella was originally published in 1895, and the writing reflects the era. The style is typically classic, with extended descriptions of the location. I might have enjoyed the tale more had the descriptions been less verbose. But the detailing of the setting and the atmosphere is so much that the core plot gets obscured at times.
To Christian readers who enjoy classic works, this story ought to be a beautiful experience. I feel you'll appreciate the writing better if you are a believer, as it has many biblical references and only if you know the Bible will you be able to recognise those Easter eggs. (Easter eggs in a Christmas story – Just imagine!)
Even if you aren't aware of the gospels but are fond of classic short stories, you might like this one, but you could miss out on the deeper intent of the author as your understanding would be restricted to the words without getting their allusions.
All in all, a good enough read for those looking for a deeper and meaningful Christmas story with a strong religious flavour and description-intensive writing.
3.75 stars.
As this story is in the public domain, you can read it free of cost on various sites online. I read it from the below link:
https://americanliterature.com/author...
Happy Christmas, everyone! 🎄💖
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
December 25, 2018
و الحال اين سه چيز باقی است، يعنی ايمان و اميد و محبت. اما بزرگترین اينها محبت است. اول قرنتیان 13:13
درباره داستان
بنابر روایت عهد جدید، پیش از تولد مسیح، ستاره ای درخشان در آسمان ظاهر شد. درخشش ستاره بنظر مجوسیان و مغان ستاره شناس سرزمین پارس عجیب و غیرعادی آمد و سه تن از آنها که به پیشگویی های باستانی مبنی بر تولد یک پادشاه قدرتمند با ظهور این ستاره باور داشتند، به اورشلیم سفر کردند تا محل تولد کودک را یافته و به ملاقات وی بروند . مجوسیان پس از یافتن مکان پادشاه مولود و پرستش نوزاد و تقدیم هدایا، از ترس هیرودیس پادشاه، مخفیانه بیت لحم را ترک کردند. متی در انجیل خود، ماجرا را اینگونه بازگو می کند
عيسی در زمان زمامداری هيروديس پادشاه، در بيت لحم يهوديه تولد يافت. پس از تولد او مجوسياني از مشرق زمين به اورشليم آمده، پرسيدند: "پادشاه نوزاد يهوديان كجاست؟ ما طلوع ستاره او را ديده و برای پرستش او آمده ايم." وقتی هيروديس پادشاه اين را شنيد، بسيار مضطرب شد و تمام مردم اورشليم نيز در اضطراب فرو رفتند. او جلسه اي با شركت سران كاهنان و علمای قوم يهود تشكيل داد و درباره محل تولد مسيح موعود از ايشان پرسيد. آنها جواب دادند "در بيت لحم يهوديه، زيرا در كتاب نبي چنين آمده است: ای بيت لحم، در سرزمين يهوديه، تو به هيچ وجه از ساير فرمانروايان يهودا كمتر نيستي، زيرا از تو پيشوايی ظهور خواهد كرد كه قوم من اسرائيل را رهبري خواهد نمود." آنگاه هيروديس از مجوسيان خواست به طور محرمانه با او ملاقات كنند و به اين ترتيب از وقت دقيق ظهور ستاره آگاه شد. بعد از آن، آنها را به بيت لحم فرستاده گفت: "برويد و با دقت به دنبال آن كودک بگرديد و همين که او را يافتيد به من خبر دهيد تا من هم بيايم و او را پرستش نمايم." آنان بنا به فرمان پادشاه حركت كردند و ستاره ای كه طلوعش را ديده بودند، پيشاپيش آنان می رفت تا در بالای مكانی كه كودک در آن بود، توقف كرد. وقتی ستاره را ديدند، بی نهايت خوشحال شدند. پس به آن خانه وارد شدند و كودک را با مادرش مريم ديده و به روی در افتاده او را پرستش كردند. آنگاه صندوقهای خود را باز كردند و هدايايي شامل طلا و كندر و مر به او تقديم نمودند. چون در عالم خواب به آنان اخطار شد كه به نزد هيروديس بازنگردند، از راهی ديگر به وطن خود برگشتند
متی 2: 1-12
اما کتاب، سه مجوسی را به حال خود رها می کند و به داستان دیگری می پردازد، داستان مجوسی چهارم. آرتابان، چهارمین مجوسی، به علت حوادث گوناگون از همراهی سه دوست خود باز می ماند و به تنهایی آهنگ سفر به سوی اورشلیم می کند تا با پادشاه جدید ملاقات کند. سفری که سی و سه سال به طول می انجامد
درون مایه داستان مجوسی چهارم و آموزه های اخلاقی عهد جدید
ایدهی داستان از سخنان مسیح درباره روز داوری در انجیل متی باب بیست و پنج گرفته شده است. عیسی روز داوری را برای شاگردانش چنین توصیف می کند
هنگامي که پسر انسان با شکوه و جلال خود به همراه همه فرشتگان بيايد، بر تخت پرشکوه خود خواهد نشست و همه قومها در برابر او حاضر خواهند شد و او همچون شباني که گوسفندها را از بزها جدا ميکند، مردمان را به دو گروه تقسيم خواهد کرد. او گوسفندان را در سمت راست و بزها را در سمت چپ خود قرار خواهد داد. سپس به آنان که در سمت راست او هستند خواهد گفت: بياييد ای برکت يافتگان از پدر من و پادشاهيای را به ميراث يابيد که از آغاز جهان برای شما آماده شده بود. زيرا گرسنه بودم، به من خوراک داديد؛ تشنه بودم، به من آب داديد؛ غريب بودم، به من جا داديد. عريان بودم، مرا پوشانيديد؛ مريض بودم، عيادتم کرديد؛ در زندان بودم، به ديدارم آمديد. آنگاه پارسايان پاسخ خواهند داد: سرور ما، کی تو را گرسنه ديديم و به تو خوراک داديم، يا تشنه ديديم و به تو آب داديم؟ کی تو را غريب ديديم و به تو جا داديم و يا عريان ديديم و تو را پوشانيديم؟ کی تو را مريض و يا در زندان ديديم و به ملاقاتت آمديم؟ پادشاه در پاسخ خواهد گفت: آمين، به شما ميگويم، آنچه برای يکی از کوچکترين برادران من کرديد، در واقع برای من کرديد. آنگاه پادشاه به آنان که در سمت چپ او هستند، خواهد گفت: ای ملعونان، از من دور شويد و به آتش جاوداني رويد که برای ابليس و فرشتگان او آماده شده است، زيرا گرسنه بودم، خوراکم نداديد؛ تشنه بودم، آبم نداديد؛ غريب بودم، جايم نداديد؛ عريان بودم، مرا نپوشانيديد؛ مريض و زندانی بودم، به ملاقاتم نيامديد. آنان پاسخ خواهند داد: سرور ما، کی تو را گرسنه و تشنه و غريب و عريان و مريض و در زندان ديديم و خدمتت نکرديم؟ او در جواب خواهد گفت: آمين، به شما می گويم، آنچه برای يکي از اين کوچکترينها نکرديد، در واقع برای من نکرديد.
هرچند که سه مجوسی موفق به دیدار با مسیح می شوند و این تثمیل برای آن ها صادق نیست، اما ون دایک به طور ضمنی دو انسان خداجوی امروزی را در تقابل با یکدیگر بهتصویر می کشد: انسانی که در جست و جوی خداست و او را نمی یابد(فردگرایی مذهبی، آنجا که زهد و تقوای شخصی سبب نادیده گرفتن جهان و مردمانش می شود) و انسانی که در جستجوی خداست و او را در محبت و خدمت به انسانهای دیگر می یابد. عهد جدید نیز الگویی جز این معرفی نمی کند
عيسی ايشان را خوانده، به ايشان گفت: " می دانيد آنانی كه حكام امتها شمرده می شوند بر ايشان رياست می كنند و بزرگانشان بر ايشان مسلطند. ليكن در ميان شما چنين نخواهد بود، بلكه هر كه خواهد در ميان شما بزرگ شود، خادم شما باشد و هر كه خواهد مقدم بر شما شود، غلام همه باشد. زيرا كه پسر انسان نيز نيامده تا مخدوم شود بلكه تا خدمت كند و تا جان خود را فدای بسياری كند." مرقس10: 42-45
از دیدگاه بونهافر، (فرد و) کلیسایی که تمام همّ و غم ش معطوف به علایق مذهبی باشد و خدمت در جهان، به جهان را فراموش کند، محکوم است. برای درک درونمایه ی داستان مجوسی چهارم و اهمیت آن، باید در مورد رسالت کلیسا بر زمین و نظریه های گوناگونی که در این باب وجود دارد صحبت کرد که بررسی کامل آن در این مجال نمی گنجد.
ترجمه و چاپ
کتاب دوزبانه ست و حاشیه نویسی و تصاویر بسیار نامربوطی دارد که ای کاش در آن گنجانده نمی شد و در این صورت حجم کتاب نیز حداقل به نیم کاهش پیدا می کرد. کتاب اولین نسخه ی ترجمه شده نیست و سالها پیش کتاب با مترجمی دیگر نیز به چاپ رسیده است.
نمایشنامه و فیلم
یک فیلم به همین نام و چند نمایشنامه با اقتباس از این داستان نوشته و به مناسب های گوناگون به نمایش درآمده است
سنجش علمی ماجرای ظهور ستاره درخشان
قابل ذکر است که دیده شدن ستا��ه در آن تاربخ و به آن شیوه، از دیدگاه علمی محتمل و شدنی ست و نظریات مختلفی در باب اثبات امکان این رخداد وجود دارد که خلاصه ای از آن ها را می توانید در این لینک ببینید.
December 24, 2017
I've characterized this tale as a short story, because that's really what it is (this copy nominally has 77 "pages," but they're quite small pages with rather large type, and blank pages between sections). But I did read it in the format of a free-standing book (it's been printed as one many times; I read it in what was apparently the 1923 printing, with Van Dyke's own Preface, not the recent one with the Buscaglia introduction), so it counts as a book as well.
By the author's own statement, the basic idea for this story came to him in a sleepless night during a long illness. It's a very simple, linear story, thoroughly message-driven, all of its characterizations and incidents structured to make one point. As befits a story in which the birth of Jesus and its saving significance is the motivating force behind the entire plot, it's solidly steeped in Christian ethical teaching. The story of the visit of the Magi to the Christ child in the second chapter of Matthew's gospel serves as the springboard, but the unique plot here is the author's own, and difficult to discuss in any detail without a spoiler. IMO, his narration gets off to a slow start, an impression accentuated by the late-19th-century diction and the use of elaborate description in the early parts. (One of my Goodreads friends felt there was a bit too much explanation or elaboration in places towards the end, but it didn't strike me that way; I thought the over-writing tended to be in the beginning sections.) My wife (to whom I read this aloud) found the beginning boring, although she came to like the story overall, and to appreciate its message. That message is what gives the story its whole meaning, and its emotional and spiritual power. It's a message thoroughly grounded in Christian truth and revelation, simple enough to be comprehended by the youngest and most uneducated among us, but deeply profound. (I found it similar, in style and quality, to some of Tolstoy's short stories.)
Like some other writers before (including Lew Wallace) and after (such as Norah Lofts) him, Van Dyke borrows the names and number of the first three Wise Men from medieval Christian tradition, and follows the popular misconception that they came to Bethlehem shortly after Jesus' birth. (In actual fact, Matthew indicates that they came at least a couple of years later.) He also interprets "Magi" as a term referring to ancient Zoroastrian priests, which, strictly speaking, is the derivation of the word; but by the first century A.D. it had come to be more generally used as a synonym for any practitioner of magic, astrology or other forms of esoteric knowledge (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magi ). But although the author indicates that he did a good deal of historical research into the background of the story, details of historical accuracy aren't really its point, and such accuracy isn't essential to its effect or the reader's appreciation. (Though as a historical note, the Fall 2016 issue of Bible and Spade has an extremely illuminating article, "The Star of Bethlehem" by Dr. Gerald Culley, which provides the most probable historical explanation for the provenance of the star, and can be read here: http://www.galaxie.com/article/bspade... .)
Henry Van Dyke (1852-1933) was a Presbyterian minister, as well as a longtime professor of English literature at Princeton Univ., his alma mater, and for a time a diplomat. He wrote quite a bit over his long career, in various genres, but this is the work he is best remembered for. Now that I've read it, I can see why; it's genuinely stood the test of time, because it conveys an important and meaningful message, and conveys it winsomely and well.
By the author's own statement, the basic idea for this story came to him in a sleepless night during a long illness. It's a very simple, linear story, thoroughly message-driven, all of its characterizations and incidents structured to make one point. As befits a story in which the birth of Jesus and its saving significance is the motivating force behind the entire plot, it's solidly steeped in Christian ethical teaching. The story of the visit of the Magi to the Christ child in the second chapter of Matthew's gospel serves as the springboard, but the unique plot here is the author's own, and difficult to discuss in any detail without a spoiler. IMO, his narration gets off to a slow start, an impression accentuated by the late-19th-century diction and the use of elaborate description in the early parts. (One of my Goodreads friends felt there was a bit too much explanation or elaboration in places towards the end, but it didn't strike me that way; I thought the over-writing tended to be in the beginning sections.) My wife (to whom I read this aloud) found the beginning boring, although she came to like the story overall, and to appreciate its message. That message is what gives the story its whole meaning, and its emotional and spiritual power. It's a message thoroughly grounded in Christian truth and revelation, simple enough to be comprehended by the youngest and most uneducated among us, but deeply profound. (I found it similar, in style and quality, to some of Tolstoy's short stories.)
Like some other writers before (including Lew Wallace) and after (such as Norah Lofts) him, Van Dyke borrows the names and number of the first three Wise Men from medieval Christian tradition, and follows the popular misconception that they came to Bethlehem shortly after Jesus' birth. (In actual fact, Matthew indicates that they came at least a couple of years later.) He also interprets "Magi" as a term referring to ancient Zoroastrian priests, which, strictly speaking, is the derivation of the word; but by the first century A.D. it had come to be more generally used as a synonym for any practitioner of magic, astrology or other forms of esoteric knowledge (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magi ). But although the author indicates that he did a good deal of historical research into the background of the story, details of historical accuracy aren't really its point, and such accuracy isn't essential to its effect or the reader's appreciation. (Though as a historical note, the Fall 2016 issue of Bible and Spade has an extremely illuminating article, "The Star of Bethlehem" by Dr. Gerald Culley, which provides the most probable historical explanation for the provenance of the star, and can be read here: http://www.galaxie.com/article/bspade... .)
Henry Van Dyke (1852-1933) was a Presbyterian minister, as well as a longtime professor of English literature at Princeton Univ., his alma mater, and for a time a diplomat. He wrote quite a bit over his long career, in various genres, but this is the work he is best remembered for. Now that I've read it, I can see why; it's genuinely stood the test of time, because it conveys an important and meaningful message, and conveys it winsomely and well.
December 6, 2017
I had forgotten how moving and perfect this short story was. It encapsulates Christmas and all of its original meaning, and it reminds us without doubt that we are meant to worship through service to others.
What a wonderful story and how special to read it at Christmas and remember why this season has so much importance for me.
What a wonderful story and how special to read it at Christmas and remember why this season has so much importance for me.
December 31, 2015
داستان سه خردمند ایرانی که از طریق ستاره شناسی و پیش گویی انبیای پیشین دریافتند که کودکی(عیسی مسیح) از قوم بنی اسرائیل به دنیا آمده و پس از روئیت ستاره مشرق به سمت اورشلیم حرکت کردند،در فرهنگ مسیحیت بسیار معروف است.
کتاب "آن خردمند دیگر"داستان خیالی چهارمین خردمند ایرانی است که قصد پیوستن به آن سه خردمند دیگر دارد
کتاب نثری شعرگونه دارد و کنار صفحه ها پر از نقاشی های قدیمی از صحنه ی پرستش مغان -همان سه خردمند- است.مقدمه ی مترجم طولانی ولی مفید بود،به خصوص چند شعری که مترجم برای شناخت بیشتر نویسنده از او در مقدمه آورده است
کتاب "آن خردمند دیگر"داستان خیالی چهارمین خردمند ایرانی است که قصد پیوستن به آن سه خردمند دیگر دارد
کتاب نثری شعرگونه دارد و کنار صفحه ها پر از نقاشی های قدیمی از صحنه ی پرستش مغان -همان سه خردمند- است.مقدمه ی مترجم طولانی ولی مفید بود،به خصوص چند شعری که مترجم برای شناخت بیشتر نویسنده از او در مقدمه آورده است
March 14, 2015
I love this little story. I read it every year on Christmas Eve, but since I have not had my fragile old copy of the book with me for the past few years, I jumped the calendar a bit since discovering it on Project Gutenberg.
The Three Wise Men gave gifts to a newborn King in his humble birthplace. And then they disappeared. The Other Wise Man was supposed to be with them, but circumstances delayed him. However, he spent his life in service to others while continuing to hope for an eventual royal encounter. The ending scene is the perfect conclusion to the story and will leave you misty.
From those of us without a formal King to those who follow whichever King is in the heart, I hope we can all feel someday what The Other Wise Man felt in his declining years: He knew that all was well, because he had done the best that he could, from day to day. He had been true to the light that had been given to him.
The Three Wise Men gave gifts to a newborn King in his humble birthplace. And then they disappeared. The Other Wise Man was supposed to be with them, but circumstances delayed him. However, he spent his life in service to others while continuing to hope for an eventual royal encounter. The ending scene is the perfect conclusion to the story and will leave you misty.
From those of us without a formal King to those who follow whichever King is in the heart, I hope we can all feel someday what The Other Wise Man felt in his declining years: He knew that all was well, because he had done the best that he could, from day to day. He had been true to the light that had been given to him.
December 22, 2017
‘What can I give Him, poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb;
If I were a Wise Man, I would do my part;
Yet what I can I give Him... give my heart.’ - Christina Rossetti
The Story of The Other Wise Man brought to mind the last stanza of a Christmas carol (‘In the Bleak Midwinter’) written by the English poet, Christina Rossetti. In this story, Henry van Dyke imaginatively conjured up the fourth Wise Man (Artaban of Persia) who fervently followed the Star in the East in hopes of finding ‘the promised one who shall be born King of Israel’ as foretold by the prophets through the ages. Unlike the three Wise men who had the joy of presenting their gifts to the Baby in the manger, the fourth Wise Man never made it in time to Bethlehem. Oh, how he would have loved to present his gifts - a sapphire, a ruby and a pearl - to the King!
This is a moving story of a Wise Man whose dream to follow the Star did not come true. And yet, no Wise Man honoured the King more than he did. He offered gifts that cost him his lifelong quest of meeting the King of kings; the gifts far surpassed jewels in value and bespoke the breadth and depth of his reverence toward the divine. Between ‘the expectation of faith and the impulse of love’, he chose rightly.
Set in the mystical Far East during the reign of Augustus Caesar, this story provided a rich background of Persian culture, the priesthood of the Magi and the practices of the fire worshippers, followers of Zoroaster. It was a time when “..the highest of all learning is the knowledge of the stars”. The Magi who studied the skies recognised the significance of that one exceptionally bright star. Fascinating.
At less than 40 pages, The Story of The Other Wise Man is a stunning read and offers some precious thoughts for the festive season. I’m thankful to Candi whose review lit the way to this gem.
If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb;
If I were a Wise Man, I would do my part;
Yet what I can I give Him... give my heart.’ - Christina Rossetti
The Story of The Other Wise Man brought to mind the last stanza of a Christmas carol (‘In the Bleak Midwinter’) written by the English poet, Christina Rossetti. In this story, Henry van Dyke imaginatively conjured up the fourth Wise Man (Artaban of Persia) who fervently followed the Star in the East in hopes of finding ‘the promised one who shall be born King of Israel’ as foretold by the prophets through the ages. Unlike the three Wise men who had the joy of presenting their gifts to the Baby in the manger, the fourth Wise Man never made it in time to Bethlehem. Oh, how he would have loved to present his gifts - a sapphire, a ruby and a pearl - to the King!
This is a moving story of a Wise Man whose dream to follow the Star did not come true. And yet, no Wise Man honoured the King more than he did. He offered gifts that cost him his lifelong quest of meeting the King of kings; the gifts far surpassed jewels in value and bespoke the breadth and depth of his reverence toward the divine. Between ‘the expectation of faith and the impulse of love’, he chose rightly.
Set in the mystical Far East during the reign of Augustus Caesar, this story provided a rich background of Persian culture, the priesthood of the Magi and the practices of the fire worshippers, followers of Zoroaster. It was a time when “..the highest of all learning is the knowledge of the stars”. The Magi who studied the skies recognised the significance of that one exceptionally bright star. Fascinating.
At less than 40 pages, The Story of The Other Wise Man is a stunning read and offers some precious thoughts for the festive season. I’m thankful to Candi whose review lit the way to this gem.
December 19, 2019
A seasonal favorite from the Victorians. . .reminds me of grandparents, especially my grandmother who was an avid reader and cheered me on in my earliest days to be her special (and I thought only) reading buddy and to her last days we'd make sure to exchange what we were currently reading. . .I often greet friends and family with her question: "What are you reading?"
She loved the story of Artaban. . .
She loved the story of Artaban. . .
February 1, 2021
اولین کتابی بود که اشکمو درآورد . کاش یه روز به شعور شخصیت اصلی داستان " اردوان " برسم...
کاش...
یجورایی شبیه داستان اویس قرنی بود که بجای یک جا ، سه جا فداکاری کرد .
کاش...
یجورایی شبیه داستان اویس قرنی بود که بجای یک جا ، سه جا فداکاری کرد .
July 31, 2019
مغان سه گانه»
اسامی این سه مغ ایرانی در متون مسیحی کاسپار، ملکیور و بالتازار آمده است.
بنا بر روایات مسیحی، مغان سه گانه با هدایت ستارگان از راه دوری به بیت اللّحم رسیدند
و با هدایت ستارۀ خاصی که حضور حضرت مسیح را اعلام می کرد به خانۀ مریم رسیدند.
و آن نوزاد پادشاه را یافتند و در این زمان که ششم ژانویۀ نخستین سال میلادی بود
دوازده روز از میلاد مسیح می گذشت. به همین جهت شب دیدار این سه خردمند را
با حضرت مسیح به عنوان شب تجلّی یا جشن دیدار یا شهود یاد می کنند
و جشن و ضیافتی بدین مناسبت برپا می کنند.
نمایشنامۀ معروف"شب دوازدهم" اثر شکسپیر نیز
اشارتی به همین شب دیدار دارد.
--------------
این داستان کوتاه جوهر تعلیمات حضرت مسیح است
و توان گفت جوهر تعلیمات همة ادیان آسمانی
را به زبانی دور از اصطلاحات بغرنج اصحاب فلسفه و کلام
و فارغ از نظریه پردازی های مذهبی اصحاب قیل و قال
در کلامی اندک بیان می کند.
جان کلام و رسالت حضرت مسیح
عشق به بشریّت
و رنج بردن در راه شادی و آزادی مردمان است.
مسیح با همة آدمیان همدرد بود
او ظلمات نابینایان و ناتوانی مفلوجان
و رنج مستمر مبروصان و جذامیان را
با تمام وجود حس می کرد
فاجران و گناهکاران را می فهمید
و با گمراهان و سرگشتگان نیز همدل و همراه بود
و همة همتش را بر این گذاشت
که عشق الهی را از آسمان به زمین آورد
تا همة مردم بتوانند خدا را دوست بدارند
و با خدمت بندگان او
بر عشق و عبودیّت خود نسبت به او گواهی دهند
مسیح دایره ای عظیم از عشق برکشید
و هیچ کس را برون دایره ننهاد
و به تعبیر زیبای اسکار وایلد:
"همة بشریّت را عروس خود کرد
و بر صلیب رنج و خدمت عهد و میثاق
زناشوئی خویش را با آن عروس به امضا رساند
و آن عروس را با خود به بهشت خواهد برد."
هنری ون دایک
به جهان خرم از آنم که جهان خرم از اوست
عاشقم بر همه عالم که همه عالم از اوست
سعدی
منم که شهره شهرم به عشق ورزیدن
منم که دیده نیالوده ام به بد دیدن
وفا کنیم و ملامت کشیم و خوش باشیم
که در شریعت ما کافری است رنجیدن
حافظ
برگرفته از پیشگفتار کتاب "آن خردمند دیگر"
----------------
«راه تو»
آن کس که بهشت را می جوید تا روحِ خویش ر�� رهایی بخشد
شاید که چند گاهی در راه استوار مانَد، اما به مقصد نخواهد رسید،
اما آن کس که "عاشق" است، شاید که از راه دور افتد،
اما همان نیّتِ پاکِ عشق، او را به حلقه ی قدیسان
و پاکان خواهد رساند.
هنری ون دایک
"The Way"
Who seeks for heaven alone to save his soul,
May keep the path, but will not reach the goal;
While he who walks in love may wander far,
Yet God will bring him where the blessed are.
Henry van Dyke
برگرفته از کتاب "آن خردمند دیگر"
ترجمۀ حسین الهی قمشه ای
اسامی این سه مغ ایرانی در متون مسیحی کاسپار، ملکیور و بالتازار آمده است.
بنا بر روایات مسیحی، مغان سه گانه با هدایت ستارگان از راه دوری به بیت اللّحم رسیدند
و با هدایت ستارۀ خاصی که حضور حضرت مسیح را اعلام می کرد به خانۀ مریم رسیدند.
و آن نوزاد پادشاه را یافتند و در این زمان که ششم ژانویۀ نخستین سال میلادی بود
دوازده روز از میلاد مسیح می گذشت. به همین جهت شب دیدار این سه خردمند را
با حضرت مسیح به عنوان شب تجلّی یا جشن دیدار یا شهود یاد می کنند
و جشن و ضیافتی بدین مناسبت برپا می کنند.
نمایشنامۀ معروف"شب دوازدهم" اثر شکسپیر نیز
اشارتی به همین شب دیدار دارد.
--------------
این داستان کوتاه جوهر تعلیمات حضرت مسیح است
و توان گفت جوهر تعلیمات همة ادیان آسمانی
را به زبانی دور از اصطلاحات بغرنج اصحاب فلسفه و کلام
و فارغ از نظریه پردازی های مذهبی اصحاب قیل و قال
در کلامی اندک بیان می کند.
جان کلام و رسالت حضرت مسیح
عشق به بشریّت
و رنج بردن در راه شادی و آزادی مردمان است.
مسیح با همة آدمیان همدرد بود
او ظلمات نابینایان و ناتوانی مفلوجان
و رنج مستمر مبروصان و جذامیان را
با تمام وجود حس می کرد
فاجران و گناهکاران را می فهمید
و با گمراهان و سرگشتگان نیز همدل و همراه بود
و همة همتش را بر این گذاشت
که عشق الهی را از آسمان به زمین آورد
تا همة مردم بتوانند خدا را دوست بدارند
و با خدمت بندگان او
بر عشق و عبودیّت خود نسبت به او گواهی دهند
مسیح دایره ای عظیم از عشق برکشید
و هیچ کس را برون دایره ننهاد
و به تعبیر زیبای اسکار وایلد:
"همة بشریّت را عروس خود کرد
و بر صلیب رنج و خدمت عهد و میثاق
زناشوئی خویش را با آن عروس به امضا رساند
و آن عروس را با خود به بهشت خواهد برد."
هنری ون دایک
به جهان خرم از آنم که جهان خرم از اوست
عاشقم بر همه عالم که همه عالم از اوست
سعدی
منم که شهره شهرم به عشق ورزیدن
منم که دیده نیالوده ام به بد دیدن
وفا کنیم و ملامت کشیم و خوش باشیم
که در شریعت ما کافری است رنجیدن
حافظ
برگرفته از پیشگفتار کتاب "آن خردمند دیگر"
----------------
«راه تو»
آن کس که بهشت را می جوید تا روحِ خویش ر�� رهایی بخشد
شاید که چند گاهی در راه استوار مانَد، اما به مقصد نخواهد رسید،
اما آن کس که "عاشق" است، شاید که از راه دور افتد،
اما همان نیّتِ پاکِ عشق، او را به حلقه ی قدیسان
و پاکان خواهد رساند.
هنری ون دایک
"The Way"
Who seeks for heaven alone to save his soul,
May keep the path, but will not reach the goal;
While he who walks in love may wander far,
Yet God will bring him where the blessed are.
Henry van Dyke
برگرفته از کتاب "آن خردمند دیگر"
ترجمۀ حسین الهی قمشه ای
December 25, 2015
The title is the synopsis. VanDyke says about the story …I have never felt as if it were my own. It was a gift. It was sent to me; and it seemed as if I knew the Giver, though His name was not spoken.
Of the hero of the tale, Artaban, VanDyke writes …there are some kinds of failure that are better than success.
And
In all this populous and intricate world of anguish, though he found none to worship, he found many to help.
A friend that I shared this story with called it a luminous gem.
That’s about right.
A quotation by Henry Van Dyke, but not part of the story:
Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love…time is eternity.
Of the hero of the tale, Artaban, VanDyke writes …there are some kinds of failure that are better than success.
And
In all this populous and intricate world of anguish, though he found none to worship, he found many to help.
A friend that I shared this story with called it a luminous gem.
That’s about right.
A quotation by Henry Van Dyke, but not part of the story:
Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love…time is eternity.
December 11, 2013
Five stars of love. What a great little story. This was written over 100 years ago, but I had never heard about it until I went looking for some classic Christmas stories to read to my daughter and found this one available as a free e-book download.
The book seemed like it was going to be a little slow in the first chapter, but then in the middle and end I fell totally in love with the story, the journey, and the message.
This one is going to be a keeper for me. I might even have to see if I can find an old hardcover copy of this to buy and add to my real book shelves. I would like to revisit this on future Christmases.
The book seemed like it was going to be a little slow in the first chapter, but then in the middle and end I fell totally in love with the story, the journey, and the message.
This one is going to be a keeper for me. I might even have to see if I can find an old hardcover copy of this to buy and add to my real book shelves. I would like to revisit this on future Christmases.
December 13, 2007
The Other Wise Man is a wonderful story. It is written in a beautiful and simple style. I only had to run to the dictionary once (am I the only one out there who has never come across the word “jerboa” before?)
It is sweet, it is beautiful. It’s the kind of book you want to own, not just borrow from the library. Concerning the story's inspiration, the author, Henry Van Dyke, said that he felt the story was given to him as a "gift" and it came to him all at once.
It is sweet, it is beautiful. It’s the kind of book you want to own, not just borrow from the library. Concerning the story's inspiration, the author, Henry Van Dyke, said that he felt the story was given to him as a "gift" and it came to him all at once.
June 25, 2012
Nearly everyone is familiar with the story of the Wise Men who brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the baby Jesus. Tradition numbers them at three and names them Caspar, Melchoir, and Balthazar. But did you know the story of “The Other Wise Man”? Artaban, a leader of the Persian Magi, learns from heavenly signs that the time is at hand for the fulfillment of an ancient prophecy about the birth among the Hebrews of a holy Prince and Deliverer of Man. Hastening to join three fellow Magi for the long journey into Judaea, he pauses to help a dying man in Babylon and is left behind. And so Artaban begins his pilgrimage alone.
Artaban then makes it to Bethlehem but finds that he has just missed both his friends and the young child. But before he can hope to catch up with Joseph, Mary, and their child on their way to Egypt, he stops to assist a mother whose child is in danger of being killed by Herod’s troops. After searching for His quest in Egypt and not finding it, he then travels from place to place, visiting the oppressed, feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, tending the sick, and comforting the captive. After 33 years, he ends up, an aged, white-haired man, in Jerusalem on the day of the Passover. Just as he thinks that he might find the object of his search who is being led away to be crucified, he is beseeched by a young girl from his native Parthia who is being sold into slavery to pay her father’s debts. Will he ever see the King for whom He has looked these many years?
Henry Jackson van Dyke (1852–1933) was a Presbyterian minister, professor at Princeton University, President Woodrow Wilson’s ambassador to the Netherlands and Luxembourg, and a noted author who wrote the hymn, “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” set to the “Ode to Joy” theme from Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. Van Dyke said, "I do not know where this little story came from--out of the air, perhaps. One thing is certain, it is not written in any other book, nor is it to be found among the ancient lore of the East. And yet I have never felt as if it were my own. It was a gift, and it seemed to me as if I knew the Giver." He first read The Story of The Other Wise Man aloud to his New York congregation after writing it and then had it published in written form. It is, in essence, a parable that shows what seeking for Jesus in life is really all about. We did it as a family read aloud, and everyone was moved by the story.
Artaban then makes it to Bethlehem but finds that he has just missed both his friends and the young child. But before he can hope to catch up with Joseph, Mary, and their child on their way to Egypt, he stops to assist a mother whose child is in danger of being killed by Herod’s troops. After searching for His quest in Egypt and not finding it, he then travels from place to place, visiting the oppressed, feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, tending the sick, and comforting the captive. After 33 years, he ends up, an aged, white-haired man, in Jerusalem on the day of the Passover. Just as he thinks that he might find the object of his search who is being led away to be crucified, he is beseeched by a young girl from his native Parthia who is being sold into slavery to pay her father’s debts. Will he ever see the King for whom He has looked these many years?
Henry Jackson van Dyke (1852–1933) was a Presbyterian minister, professor at Princeton University, President Woodrow Wilson’s ambassador to the Netherlands and Luxembourg, and a noted author who wrote the hymn, “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” set to the “Ode to Joy” theme from Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. Van Dyke said, "I do not know where this little story came from--out of the air, perhaps. One thing is certain, it is not written in any other book, nor is it to be found among the ancient lore of the East. And yet I have never felt as if it were my own. It was a gift, and it seemed to me as if I knew the Giver." He first read The Story of The Other Wise Man aloud to his New York congregation after writing it and then had it published in written form. It is, in essence, a parable that shows what seeking for Jesus in life is really all about. We did it as a family read aloud, and everyone was moved by the story.
December 6, 2015
This is a well known story. I have heard it narrated in many sermons or spiritual retreats. But I had never read the original work. So when I saw the book in the library by a pure accident, I chose to have a first hand experience of it.
The story is simple and lovely. The language is beautiful. I loved reading it. And this being the season of Advent, the book served also the other purpose of aiding my spiritual preparation for the Christmas. It is a good Christmas read.
On the flyleaf of the book, you are already given in nutshell the theme of the book.
Let me reproduce it:
"Who seeks for heaven alone to save his soul,
May keep the path, but will not reach the goal;
While he who walks in love may wander far,
Yet God will bring him where the blessed are."
About the story:
The story is simple and lovely. The language is beautiful. I loved reading it. And this being the season of Advent, the book served also the other purpose of aiding my spiritual preparation for the Christmas. It is a good Christmas read.
On the flyleaf of the book, you are already given in nutshell the theme of the book.
Let me reproduce it:
"Who seeks for heaven alone to save his soul,
May keep the path, but will not reach the goal;
While he who walks in love may wander far,
Yet God will bring him where the blessed are."
About the story:
December 4, 2019
A King's Ransom
What a beautiful little story! Artaban, one of the Magi, sees the star in the East and prepares to join the three other Magi to find the newborn King, the prophesied savior of mankind, but the providential manner in which he is sidetracked and arrives too late, first in Bethlehem, again in Egypt, and one last time before his death, results in his ultimately finding the way of salvation through love and mercy. Van Dyke has given us a story to be shared anytime in the Christmas season and its message remembered.
What a beautiful little story! Artaban, one of the Magi, sees the star in the East and prepares to join the three other Magi to find the newborn King, the prophesied savior of mankind, but the providential manner in which he is sidetracked and arrives too late, first in Bethlehem, again in Egypt, and one last time before his death, results in his ultimately finding the way of salvation through love and mercy. Van Dyke has given us a story to be shared anytime in the Christmas season and its message remembered.
April 18, 2022
Artaban is the fourth wise man. He has two gifts for the Baby Jesus - a ruby and a pearl. He is to meet up with the other three Magi to pay the Child a visit. On the way he is delayed by a man lying under a fig tree who looks dead but only needs sustenance and medicine. Stopping to help result in him missing the other three.
But Artaban is not deterred. He finds the way to Bethlehem but is too late. The Child and His family have left. All baby boys between the ages of birth to 2 are to be slain. He meets a mother who has a baby boy. The soldiers try to kill the boy but Artaban bribes them with the ruby. At least one life saved.
Thirty three years go by. Artaban still has the pearl. He hears that Jesus is to be crucified and hope he can use the pearl to bribe the soldiers and save Jesus. Before he can, he sees a young girl being raped. He decides to use the pearl to save this girl.
Artaban never does see Jesus and now his gifts are gone. The last sentence of the story sums it up beautifully:
"His journey was ended. His treasures were accepted. The Other Wise Man had found the King."
4 stars
But Artaban is not deterred. He finds the way to Bethlehem but is too late. The Child and His family have left. All baby boys between the ages of birth to 2 are to be slain. He meets a mother who has a baby boy. The soldiers try to kill the boy but Artaban bribes them with the ruby. At least one life saved.
Thirty three years go by. Artaban still has the pearl. He hears that Jesus is to be crucified and hope he can use the pearl to bribe the soldiers and save Jesus. Before he can, he sees a young girl being raped. He decides to use the pearl to save this girl.
Artaban never does see Jesus and now his gifts are gone. The last sentence of the story sums it up beautifully:
"His journey was ended. His treasures were accepted. The Other Wise Man had found the King."
4 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2022
This is a story I grew up listening to my mom read aloud many times, but it has been years since I’ve read or heard it. This year I listened to it on Librivox as I worked on a project and was reminded just how good it is. While not exciting or anything like that, this story has heart. And there is a tender reminder that “as ye have done it unto the least of these my brethren, ye have done it until me.”
December 27, 2019
I found this story in a collection of Christmas stories given to my mother in 1945. How I have missed reading this story of profound meaning, I cannot fathom. So many layers of meaning. So appropriate that I read The Story of The Other Wise Man this Christmas.
Kindness and mercy are more precious than gemstones. Pass it on.
Kindness and mercy are more precious than gemstones. Pass it on.
December 22, 2021
Beautiful story.
Thank you my friend for gifting this to me. The story gave me goosebumps.
Thank you my friend for gifting this to me. The story gave me goosebumps.
April 11, 2022
2.5 ⭐
A very simple book 😐
A very simple book 😐
February 1, 2018
It's not a commonly known story but it's a classic nonethelesss.
If your family is looking for another good, thought-provoking read-aloud this holiday, here's a good one. It tells about another Wise Man who was to meet up with those that presented Jesus with the gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, but how he was detained and endeavored to continue on his journey to reach Christ.
Incredibly unique and plausible - this short, sixty page book is worth the read.
Ages: 8+
Cleanliness: The word "breast" and "bosom" are used to mean heart/chest seven times. Wine is mentioned. The word "bl**dy" is used to mean lots of blood. A few ancient gods are referenced and using the stars to predict prophesies.
#christmas #read-aloud
**Like my reviews? I also have hundreds of detailed reports that I offer too. These reports give a complete break-down of everything in the book, so you'll know just how clean it is or isn't. I also have Clean Guides (downloadable PDFs) which enable you to clean up your book before reading it! Visit my website: The Book Radar.
If your family is looking for another good, thought-provoking read-aloud this holiday, here's a good one. It tells about another Wise Man who was to meet up with those that presented Jesus with the gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, but how he was detained and endeavored to continue on his journey to reach Christ.
Incredibly unique and plausible - this short, sixty page book is worth the read.
Ages: 8+
Cleanliness: The word "breast" and "bosom" are used to mean heart/chest seven times. Wine is mentioned. The word "bl**dy" is used to mean lots of blood. A few ancient gods are referenced and using the stars to predict prophesies.
#christmas #read-aloud
**Like my reviews? I also have hundreds of detailed reports that I offer too. These reports give a complete break-down of everything in the book, so you'll know just how clean it is or isn't. I also have Clean Guides (downloadable PDFs) which enable you to clean up your book before reading it! Visit my website: The Book Radar.
January 19, 2016
This story has more than one single meaning. It has more than three. Layers and layers of symbolism and of allegories really set this small book apart from any other. The foreshadowing shows how much we accomplish when we live for Jesus and how much our lives really impact others.
Not many greats are left that compare to Henry van Dyke, and I can truly say this is a book that I will pass down to my children since I own the 1899 edition.
Not many greats are left that compare to Henry van Dyke, and I can truly say this is a book that I will pass down to my children since I own the 1899 edition.
December 25, 2024
Christmas Eve tradition 🥰
December 19, 2016
A timeless story and my Christmas book for the day.
December 17, 2023
Wonderful.
December 3, 2020
When I think about my childhood Christmases, there is one memory that stands out. My Dad died when I was eleven; so I don’t have a lot of memories of him. But I vividly remember that each Christmas he would read “The Other Wiseman” by Henry Van Dyke out loud to our family. This is a small book, but a long story to read. For three or four nights before Christmas he would read a segment, ending on Christmas Eve. When I was very young, I remember that I would fall asleep before he stopped reading. I still have the copy of the book he read from with notations where he stopped reading each night.
This is a very moving story about a fourth Wise Man. As many of you know, the Bible doesn’t say how many “kings” there were. Tradition has it that there were three, because of the three gifts enumerated in the Bible. The story of the fourth wise man tells of his life-long search for the King whose star he and his friends saw. The true message of that King is demonstrated by the Other Wise Man.
This is a very moving story about a fourth Wise Man. As many of you know, the Bible doesn’t say how many “kings” there were. Tradition has it that there were three, because of the three gifts enumerated in the Bible. The story of the fourth wise man tells of his life-long search for the King whose star he and his friends saw. The true message of that King is demonstrated by the Other Wise Man.
September 15, 2022
داستان سه خردمند ایرانی که زمان تولد عیسی مسیح را با رصد ستارگان تشخیص دادند و به زیارت او رفتند، از افسانه های مسیحی است که در کتب مختف نقل شده. کتاب «آن خردمند دیگر»، داستانی خیالی از یک مغ دیگر ایرانی با نام اردوان است که به عنوان خردمند چهارم قصد دارد به زیارت عیسی مسیح برود ولی در طی سفر طولانی او اتفاقاتی برایش رخ می دهد که ناچار به تصمیم گیریهای اخلاقی و انسانی می شود. کتاب از نظر محتوایی متوسط است ولی ترجمه عالی الهی قمشه ای و زبان شعرگونه آن، باعث شده کتابی جذاب برای مطالعه باشد.
December 13, 2024
This book is just my cup of tea. Perfect for the Christmas season. Reading this with a hot drink of your choice, carols on in the background, in front of the Christmas tree: perfection.
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