Ben Hur · Chapter
XVII explained
Ben-Hur, after hearing Balthasar's story, wrestles with the nature of the promised kingdom and the role of the coming king.
What happens
Ben-Hur, after hearing Balthasar's story, wrestles with the nature of the promised kingdom and the role of the coming king. He questions whether the kingdom is earthly or spiritual, and is torn between the visions of Balthasar and the practical wisdom of Simonides. His reverie is interrupted by Ilderim, who advises him to consult Simonides for a more concrete understanding. Later, he hears Iras singing a lament on the lake, and is drawn to her beauty, but also recalls Esther, leaving him uncertain about which influence is taking root in his heart.
Themes in this chapter
Spiritual vs. Worldly Ambition
Ben-Hur grapples with Balthasar's vision of a spiritual kingdom versus his own desire for an earthly, military revolution against Rome.
Faith and Redemption
Ben-Hur's search for a hero and a kingdom reflects his longing for redemption for Israel, though he struggles to reconcile faith with practical action.
Love and Family
The chapter introduces romantic feelings as Ben-Hur is drawn to Iras and Esther, suggesting a new emotional dimension in his life.
Characters to notice
- Ben-Hur
Reflects deeply on Balthasar's story, questioning the nature of the kingdom and his own revolutionary plans; hears Iras's song and feels a new emotional stirring.
- Balthasar
His story of the Spirit and the coming kingdom weighs heavily on Ben-Hur, though his description of the kingdom as 'not of the earth' leaves Ben-Hur uncertain.
- Sheik Ilderim
Interrupts Ben-Hur's reverie, advising him to trust Simonides over Balthasar regarding the earthly nature of the coming kingdom.
- Simonides
Referenced by Ilderim as a wise man who can provide a more practical interpretation of the prophecies; Ben-Hur feels conflicted about his influence.
- Iras
Sings a lament on the lake, captivating Ben-Hur with her beauty and voice; he recalls her features with admiration.
- Esther
Appears in Ben-Hur's memory as a contrasting, tender figure; he wonders which woman's influence is beginning to affect him.
- Malluch
Mentioned as having given Ben-Hur a skeleton recital of Balthasar's story earlier.
Key passages
“The power there is in Love had not yet occurred to any man; much less had one come saying directly that for government and its objects—peace and order—Love is better and mightier than Force.”
No one had yet realized that love could be a more effective principle for governance than force.
Narrator's reflection on the limitations of Ben-Hur's understanding of the coming kingdom.
“The Egyptian gives you coinage of his dreams which are too good for the earth; Simonides is wiser; he will ring you the sayings of your prophets, giving book and page, so you cannot deny that the Child will be King of the Jews in fact.”
Balthasar's vision is too idealistic; Simonides will show you from scripture that the Child will be a literal king.
Ilderim advises Ben-Hur to seek Simonides for a more practical interpretation of prophecy.
“I know her by the song—the daughter of Balthasar. How beautiful it was! And how beautiful is she!”
He recognizes the singer as Balthasar's daughter and is struck by her beauty.
Ben-Hur's reaction to Iras's song and appearance.