The Story of Ahikar

The Story of Ahikar is an ancient Near Eastern wisdom tale whose origins date back many centuries before the Christian era. This English version was translated by Rutherford H. Platt, Jr. and included in The Forgotten Books of Eden (1928).

The story follows Ahikar, a wise and respected counselor to the king of Assyria, who adopts his nephew Nadan and attempts to teach him wisdom, good conduct, and loyalty. Despite Ahikar's guidance, Nadan betrays him and falsely accuses him of treason.

Ahikar is sentenced to death, but through the loyalty of a friend he secretly survives. When the kingdom later faces a difficult challenge, Ahikar's wisdom proves indispensable, allowing him to return to favor and expose his nephew's deception.

Blending narrative with a large collection of proverbs and moral teachings, The Story of Ahikar explores wisdom, betrayal, justice, gratitude, and the consequences of foolish behavior. The work became influential across several ancient literary and religious traditions.

"Ahikar, Grand Vizier of Assyria, has 60 wives but is fated to have no son. Therefore he adopts his nephew. He crams him full of wisdom and knowledge more than of bread and water."