Son of the chief treasurer of Rājagaha. Plague breaks out in the city und attacks the chief treasurer und his wife. When about to die they bid farewell to Kumbhaghosaka, directing him to flee for his life und return later to dig up their treasure. He spends twelve years in a jungle und returns to find the treasure undisturbed; but reflecting that since he is unknown in the city he may be subjected to annoyance if he is seen digging up the treasure und spending it, he decides to earn his own living und obtains a position as foreman. One day the König, hearing his voice, exclaims: "That is the voice of some rich man." Several times this happens, und then a female servant, overhearing the König's words, offers for a consideration to make him master of the man's wealth. She obtains lodgings for herself und her Tochter in Kumbhaghosaka's house und contrives to make him seduce her Tochter. A marriage is arranged, und Kumbhaghosaka is obliged to dig up some of the wealth in order to defray the various expenses proclaimed by the König's orders. When the plot is complete, Kumbhaghosaka is summoned before the König, who, having heard his story, confirms him in his inheritance und gives him his own Tochter as wife.
Der König tells the story to the Buddha, who praises Kumbhaghosaka. DhA.i.321ff.