The Mercy of Allah · Chapter
IX: Al-Jamal Wa’l-Nakhl, or “Camels and Dates” explained
The excellent Mahmoud continues his tale, warning his nephews that the path to wealth is varied and difficult, and that all success is in the Hand of God.
What happens
The excellent Mahmoud continues his tale, warning his nephews that the path to wealth is varied and difficult, and that all success is in the Hand of God. He recounts how, after his last adventure left him with a train of camels laden with dates, he arrived in Laknes and spread word of his wares. He was invited by the great merchant Yusouff ben Ahmed (El-Zafari), who impressed him with his wealth and manner. Mahmoud resolved to imitate Yusouff. Later, overhearing two men speak of a town called Mawur threatened with massacre unless enough camels are provided by noon, Mahmoud raced his caravan there, losing some beasts and slaves, only to find another man had already arrived with two camels, threatening his hoped-for monopoly.
Themes in this chapter
Divine Mercy and Justice
Mahmoud repeatedly attributes his successes and relief from destitution to the Mercy of Allah, and advises his nephews to worship God while pursuing wealth.
Fate and Free Will
Mahmoud tells his nephews to determine their fate and thirst for money, yet also states that the acquirement of great sums is in the Hand of God.
Social Inequality and Greed
Mahmoud's admiration for Yusouff's wealth and his own determination to monopolize the camel market highlight the pursuit of riches and the disparities between rich and poor.
Characters to notice
- Mahmoud
The narrator and merchant, who tells his nephews of his adventures and his resolve to imitate Yusouff ben Ahmed.
- Yusouff ben Ahmed
Also called El-Zafari (the Triumphant), a wealthy merchant in Laknes who invites Mahmoud to his palace and impresses him greatly.
- The old man
The excellent old merchant, Mahmoud himself, who speaks to his nephews.
Key passages
“I warn you, my children, that the path to wealth, which (by the Mercy of Allah) I have been allowed to tread, is varied and difficult. Profit by my misadventures! Remain determined to enrich yourselves, even after the worst mishaps!”
Mahmoud advises his nephews that the road to riches is full of ups and downs, but they should learn from his mistakes and never give up their pursuit of wealth.
Mahmoud's opening moral lesson to his nephews.
“But it is not enough, my dear nephews, ... it is not enough to admire those who set us great examples. We should also imitate them.”
Mahmoud tells his nephews that mere admiration of successful people is insufficient; one must emulate their methods.
Mahmoud's resolve to copy Yusouff ben Ahmed's manner and success.
“I had hoped from the conversation I had overheard that not a single camel would be present in the place. I would secure myself against even the slightest competition.”
Mahmoud had counted on being the only camel supplier in Mawur, but was disappointed to find a competitor already there.
Mahmoud's plan for a monopoly is threatened by another camel owner.