The Death of Ivan Ilyich and Other Stories · Chapter
Where Love Is, God Is explained
Martin Avdéitch, a cobbler grieving the loss of his son, finds despair and turns from God.
What happens
Martin Avdéitch, a cobbler grieving the loss of his son, finds despair and turns from God. After a pilgrim advises him to live for God and read the Gospels, Martin's life transforms. He finds peace and joy in scripture. One night, reading about Christ's visit to the Pharisee, Martin dreams he is told to expect a visit. The next day, while waiting, he warmly receives a series of visitors: an old soldier, a poor woman with a baby, and an old woman and boy. In serving them with food, warmth, and kindness, he later realizes he has served Christ himself.
Themes in this chapter
Faith, Spirituality, and Redemption
Martin's journey from despair and murmuring against God to finding peace, purpose, and a direct experience of the divine through scripture and acts of love.
Moral Philosophy and Virtue
The chapter explores the practical application of Christian ethics—humility, charity, and seeing Christ in others—as the foundation for a meaningful life.
Characters to notice
- Martin Avdéitch
The grieving cobbler whose spiritual journey from despair to joyful service forms the core of the chapter.
- Stepan Pelageushkine
An old soldier and former gardener who is Martin's first guest, receiving tea, warmth, and spiritual conversation.
- The Stranger
The poor woman with a baby whom Martin invites in from the cold, feeds, and comforts.
Key passages
““You have no right to say such things, Martin. We cannot judge God’s ways. Not our reasoning, but God’s will, decides... As to your despair—that comes because you wish to live for your own happiness.” “What else should one live for?” asked Martin. “For God, Martin,” said the old man.”
The pilgrim challenges Martin's self-centered grief, instructing him that the purpose of life is to live for God, not for personal happiness.
Pivotal moment that redirects Martin's spiritual focus.
“He read these verses and thought: “He must have been like me, that Pharisee. He too thought only of himself—how to get a cup of tea, how to keep warm and comfortable; never a thought of his guest... If he came to me, should I behave like that?””
Martin self-reflectively compares his own potential selfishness to the Pharisee who failed to honor Christ, questioning how he would receive the Lord.
Shows Martin's internalization of the Gospel and his preparation for service.
““I was reading the Gospel... I came to that part, you know, where he went to a Pharisee who did not receive him well... I heard someone call me by name... ‘Expect me; I will come tomorrow.’””
Martin explains to Stepánitch his dream or vision, where he was told to expect a visit, which he interprets as a visit from Christ.
Sets up the narrative frame for Martin's vigilant hospitality.