Sumedha and the Minister’s Advice Once, in a certain place, a very wealthy master had a servant named Sumedha. Deeply pleased with Sumedha’s utmost loyalty and honesty, the master granted him his freedom. Furthermore, wishing him a prosperous life as a wealthy merchant abroad, the master blessed him and gifted him a ship completely laden with valuable merchandise. Sumedha initiated his journey. However, midway through the voyage, the ship was caught in a massive whirlpool and was destroyed. Everyone on board drowned in the sea. Clinging heroically to a log of wood, Sumedha managed to survive and washed ashore on a deserted island. Utterly devastated by the loss of all his wealth, he sat there weeping. An Unexpected Elevation to Royalty Suddenly, accompanied by festive music and jubilant cheers, a vast crowd of people approached the shore. A royal elephant stepped forward and placed a garland around Sumedha’s neck. "Welcome to our King!" they shouted in acclamation. They escor...