Seven Pillars of Wisdom · Chapter
XXXVII explained
Lawrence observes Abdulla's reluctance to engage in military operations due to jealousy of Feisal, then departs from Wadi Ais with his party.
What happens
Lawrence observes Abdulla's reluctance to engage in military operations due to jealousy of Feisal, then departs from Wadi Ais with his party. The journey to Wejh is marked by hospitality, cultural observations, and the physical challenges of desert travel, including a race that exhausts Mohammed. Lawrence reflects on the Arab character and the necessity of patience and understanding in working with them.
Themes in this chapter
Honor and Deception
Abdulla's pretense of neglecting military operations to avoid comparison with Feisal.
Suffering and Endurance
The physical hardships of desert travel, including Mohammed's collapse after a race.
Culture and Otherness
Lawrence's observations on Bedouin character, customs, and the challenges of cross-cultural collaboration.
Characters to notice
- Sherif Abdulla
Shows jealousy of Feisal, neglects military operations, but eventually permits Lawrence's activities.
- T.E. Lawrence
Departs Wadi Ais, reflects on Arab character and the revolt's strategy.
- Emir Feisal
Praised as the working enthusiast driving the Arab revolt.
- Sherif Shakir
Helped Lawrence get started in Wadi Ais.
- Mohammed el Kadhi
Guide for the journey, participates in races and pranks.
- Old Dakhil-Allah
His wife's tents provide hospitality and a meal.
Key passages
“I detected jealousy of Feisal in this, as if he wished ostentatiously to neglect military operations to prevent unbecoming comparison with his brother's performance.”
Lawrence sensed that Abdulla was jealous of Feisal and deliberately avoided military actions to avoid unfavorable comparisons.
Highlights Abdulla's personal motivations and the rivalry between the brothers.
“Their strength was the strength of men geographically beyond temptation: the poverty of Arabia made them simple, continent, enduring.”
The Bedouins' strength came from their harsh environment, which forced them to be simple, self-restrained, and resilient.
Lawrence's analysis of how geography shapes character.
“They would follow us, if we endured with them, and played the game according to their rules.”
The Arabs would cooperate if the British showed patience and adapted to their customs.
Lawrence's insight into effective cross-cultural leadership.