Story of Hātim and the Messenger sent to kill Him
One of the kings of Yaman was renowned for his liberality, yet the name of Hātim was never mentioned in his presence without his falling into a rage. “How long,” he would ask, “wilt thou speak of that vain man, who possesses neither a kingdom, nor power, nor wealth?”
On one occasion he prepared a royal feast, which the people were invited to attend. Someone began to speak of Hātim, and another to praise him. Envious, the king despatched a man to slay the Arabian chief, reflecting: “So long as Hātim lives, my name will never become famous.”
The messenger departed, and travelled far seeking for Hātim that he might kill him. As he went along the road a youth came out to meet him. He was handsome and wise, and showed friendliness toward the messenger, whom he took to his house to pass the night. Such liberality did he shower upon his guest that the heart of the evil-minded one was turned to goodness.
In the morning the generous youth kissed his hand and said: “Remain with me for a few days.”
“I am unable to tarry here,” replied the messenger, “for urgent business is before me.”
“If thou wilt entrust me with thy secret,” said the youth, “to aid thee will I spare no effort.”
“O generous man!” was the reply, “give ear to me, for I know that the generous are concealers of secrets. Perhaps in this country thou knowest Hātim, who is of lofty mind and noble qualities. The king of Yaman desires his head, though I know not what enmity has arisen between them. Grateful shall I be if thou wilt direct me to where he is. This hope from thy kindness do I entertain, O friend.”
The youth laughed and said: “I am Hātim; see here my head! strike it from my body with thy sword. I would not that harm should befall thee, or that thou shouldst fail in thy endeavour.”
Throwing aside his sword, the man fell on the ground and kissed the dust of Hātim’s feet. “If I injured a hair on thy body,” he cried, “I should no longer be a man.” So saying, he clasped Hātim to his breast and took his way back to Yaman.
“Come,” said the king as the man approached, “what news hast thou? Why didst thou not tie his head to thy saddle-straps? Perhaps that famous one attacked thee and thou wert too weak to engage in combat.”
The messenger kissed the ground and said: “O wise and just king! I found Hātim, and saw him to be generous and full of wisdom, and in courage superior to myself. My back was bent by the burden of his favours; with the sword of kindness and bounty he killed me.”
When he had related all that he had seen of Hātim’s generosity, the king uttered praises upon the family of the Arab chief and rewarded the messenger with gold.
