Ben Hur
A loyal servant and friend to Ben-Hur's family, who manages their affairs and supports Ben-Hur's cause.
VII
Not directly present; the chapter describes a wealthy Jewish prince but does not name him.
Book II
Ben-Hur meets Simonides, a wise and loyal steward who provides counsel and support.
The Mother's Counsel
Mentioned as the wise rector Ben-Hur's mother considers consulting.
The Mother's Counsel
Not present in this chapter.
Chapter III
Not directly present, but Ben-Hur's father Ithamar is mentioned as a prince and merchant known to Arrius.
I
Former agent of the Hur family, now a wealthy merchant in Antioch, reportedly tortured by the procurator.
II
A wealthy Jewish merchant in Antioch, described as the richest merchant in the city, with quarters under a bridge.
The Meeting with Simonides
Former servant of Prince Hur; demands proof of Ben-Hur's identity; reveals he has no news of the lost family.
Simonides' Revelation
Reveals his past as a bond-servant to Prince Hur, his love for Rachel, and his enduring quest for vengeance against the Romans.
IX
Malluch's master, who is interested in learning about Ben-Hur's history.
The Sheik's Story and the Three Wise Men
Mentioned as Malluch's master and a wise merchant; Ilderim visited him to tell the story of the three wise men.
Chapter XI
Simonides speaks passionately about the coming king and his plans for Ben-Hur, and shows jealousy and concern over Esther's feelings for the young master.
XII
Briefly mentioned as being in his chair perfecting his scheme in aid of the miraculous king.
Chapter XV
Present at the gathering in the tent, though not directly active in the conversation.
XVII
Referenced by Ilderim as a wise man who can provide a more practical interpretation of the prophecies; Ben-Hur feels conflicted about his influence.
Book V
Wise counselor and steward, embodying patience and strategic foresight.
II
Sends two letters to Ilderim, expressing care for Ben-Hur and warning of Roman threats.
III
Simonides has invited Sheik Ilderim to the city for a meeting.
Chapter V
Mentioned as the writer of the letter that Ben-Hur reads, which provides news about his mother and sister.
The Intercepted Letter and the Chariot's Promise
His house is the destination; Ben-Hur is invited to enter in God's name.
VII
Presents the account of the wealth, reveals the servant status of himself and Esther, and is deeply moved by Ben-Hur's generosity.
VIII
Reveals his belief that God's purpose is for Ben-Hur to establish a worldly kingdom, citing prophets and his own experiences.
Chapter IX
Appears at the end of the chapter, rolled in his chair by a servant, and becomes principal in the after-talk as the galley departs.
The Chariot Race Preparations
Mentioned as the one to arrange security for the wagers, though not present in the scene.
Chapter XI
Mentioned as the holder of Sanballat's fifty talents, confirming Sanballat's wealth.
The Chariot Race
The merchant who made a wager with Messala and is present at the race with his party.
XIV
Watches from the balcony with his party, waving to Ben-Hur after the victory.
Chapter XV
Sends word through Malluch about the Roman payment dispute and advises Ben-Hur to have no disquiet.
Chapter XVI
Ben-Hur recounts the events to him, and they plan a public inquiry to cover the deception.
Book VI
Provides counsel and strategic support to Ben-Hur.
I
Paid five talents to Sejanus to secure the appointment of Pontius Pilate, aiding Ben-Hur's mission.
II
Mentioned indirectly as a former servant who might remember the family.
Chapter III
Mentioned as the source of information that Amrah is still living in the old house.
V
Not directly present in this chapter.
I
Supports Ben-Hur with arms and money; receives a letter from Ben-Hur.
Chapter II
Mentioned as one of the few who knew the name of the victor in the combat, raising Ben-Hur's suspicion about Iras's knowledge.
I
The merchant, now in Jerusalem, warns Esther about Iras's influence over Ben-Hur and laments his own inability to intervene.
II
Hosts the gathering, questions Ben-Hur about the Nazarene, and debates his identity.
V
Not directly mentioned in this chapter, but implied as part of Ben-Hur's circle.
Chapter VII
His armchair is on the roof, but he is not present; Esther is asleep in it.
Chapter VIII
Not directly present, but Ben-Hur's thoughts of Esther imply a connection to her father.
Chapter IX
Accompanies Ben-Hur to Golgotha, carried in his chair, and comments on the crowd's mockery.
The Crucifixion and Aftermath
Witnesses the crucifixion, hears the thief's request and the Nazarene's reply, and achieves perfect faith.
