# XII explained — Kim

> Chapter companion for Kim by Rudyard Kipling.

## What happens

Kim and the lama continue their journey, receiving hospitality from the old lady. The lama engages in philosophical discussions with Hurree Babu, who is disguised as a hakim. Kim learns more about the lama's past and his monastery in Bhotiyal. The chapter ends with Hurree Babu revealing his true identity to Kim and congratulating him on his work in Delhi.

## Themes in this chapter

### Spirituality and the Search for Enlightenment

The lama's discussions with Hurree Babu about medicine and his stories of Bhotiyal emphasize his spiritual journey and the search for the River.

### Deception and Disguise

Hurree Babu's disguise as a hakim and his later revelation to Kim highlight the theme of deception and espionage.

### Friendship and Loyalty

The bond between Kim and the lama deepens as Kim learns more about the lama's past and feels a strong attachment to him.

## Character check-ins

### Kim

Kim observes the lama and Hurree Babu's discussions, enjoys the hospitality of the old lady, and later learns that Hurree Babu is a fellow agent.

### Teshoo Lama

The lama debates with Hurree Babu about medicine, shares stories of his monastery in Bhotiyal, and continues his spiritual search.

### Hurree Chunder Mookerjee

Disguised as a hakim, Hurree Babu engages the lama in philosophical discussion and later reveals his true identity to Kim, congratulating him on his work.

### The Old Lady

The old lady provides hospitality to Kim and the lama, cooking for them and offering blessings before they continue their journey.

### The Oorya

The white-bearded Oorya servant comments on the old lady's generosity and later delivers a message inviting the lama and Kim to visit her.

## Key lines

> He believed that the dung of a black horse, mixed with sulphur, and carried in a snake-skin, was a sound remedy for cholera; but the symbolism interested him far more than the science.

The lama valued the symbolic meaning of folk remedies more than their practical effectiveness.

_Highlights the lama's spiritual perspective on medicine._

> To those who follow the Way there is neither black nor white, Hind nor Bhotiyal. We be all souls seeking escape.

For those on the spiritual path, racial and cultural distinctions are irrelevant; all are souls seeking liberation.

_Reflects the lama's universalist spiritual philosophy._

> I am old and useless, she said. None now love me—and none respect—but there are few to compare with me when I call on the Gods and squat to my cooking-pots.

The old lady laments her age but takes pride in her hospitality and devotion.

_Shows the old lady's character and her role as a generous host._

> How do you do, Mister O'Hara? I am jolly glad to see you again.

Hurree Babu greets Kim in English, revealing his true identity.

_Marks the moment of revelation and the espionage subplot._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/kim_se/chapters/xii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/kim_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/kim_se/chapters