The Mercy of Allah · Chapter
VII: Ghanamat, or “The Sheep” explained
Mahmoud continues his tale, describing his destitution after losing his fortune.
What happens
Mahmoud continues his tale, describing his destitution after losing his fortune. He meets a proud shepherd with a vast flock and proposes a partnership to sell the sheep, despite his own recent betrayal. The shepherd reluctantly agrees, and they plan to deceive the market by swapping clothes and roles. Mahmoud reflects on his suffering and his faith, while his nephews listen with newfound sympathy.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Redemption
Mahmoud's ordeal of poverty and torture is framed as a divine test leading to eventual redemption and renewed faith.
Faith and Resilience
Mahmoud repeatedly credits his religious faith for sustaining him through misfortune and preventing bitterness.
Social Inequality and Greed
Mahmoud's past as a wealthy merchant contrasts with his current poverty, and his schemes reveal a focus on profit and deception.
Characters to notice
- Mahmoud
Narrates his past poverty and proposes a partnership with the shepherd to sell sheep.
- The old man
The shepherd with a haughty, eagle-like bearing who owns the flock and agrees to Mahmoud's scheme.
- The judge
Mentioned in the context of the trial that led to Mahmoud's downfall.
Key passages
“Nothing, my boys, but Religion supported me during the fearful days that followed. I think I can say with humility that one less founded in a firm reliance upon his Maker would have grown embittered.”
Mahmoud tells his nephews that only his faith kept him from becoming bitter after his misfortunes.
Highlights the theme of faith and resilience.
“Why should not we, enter into partnership? I think I may say without boasting that I possess in a singular degree those faculties which you say you lack. God made me in every part for a merchant.”
Mahmoud proposes a partnership with the shepherd, boasting of his mercantile skills.
Shows Mahmoud's confidence and cunning nature.