Chapter XV explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Friendship and Loyalty

  The lama's dependence on Kim and the Sahiba's care for Kim highlight bonds of loyalty and mutual support.

• Spirituality and the Search for Enlightenment

  The lama's claim to have found the River and his focus on Kim's spiritual cleansing dominate the chapter.

• The Great Game and Espionage

  Mahbub Ali's concern for Kim's role as a scribe for the State and the hidden letters and pistol underscore espionage themes.

Characters to notice

• Kim

  Recovering from physical and mental exhaustion; cared for by the Sahiba; hides Mahbub's pistol and letters.

• Teshoo Lama

  Confesses to leaning on Kim's strength; announces he has found the River and that Kim will be cleansed and become a teacher.

• The Old Lady

  The Sahiba who nurses Kim back to health; discusses the lama's plans and provides hospitality.

• Mahbub Ali

  Visits the lama; discusses Kim's future and the Great Game; expresses concern about Kim becoming a teacher.

Key passages

• “Thou leanest on me in the body, Holy One, but I lean on thee for some other things. Dost know it?”

  Kim tells the lama that while the lama relies on him physically, Kim relies on the lama for spiritual guidance.

  Highlights the mutual dependence between Kim and the lama.

• “I will take over the boy and dose him, and stuff him, and make him all whole.”

  The Sahiba declares she will nurse Kim back to health with her own methods.

  Shows the Sahiba's maternal authority and practical care.

• “He is sure of Nibban—enlightened—as I am.”

  The lama asserts that Kim will achieve enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

  Reflects the lama's spiritual certainty and his vision for Kim's future.