The Book of Khalid · Chapters

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Chapter companions for The Book of Khalid by Ameen Rihani.

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Chapter 1
Al-Fatihah
The opening chapter introduces the Book of Khalid as a manuscript discovered in the Khedivial Library of Cairo. The editor describes its curious cover drawings and the dedication. Khalid's own opening word, al-Fatihah, follows, in which he declares his book to be a travelogue of the soul, neither memoir nor autobiography. He critiques the many guides and dragomans of society—political, moral, and religious—and urges the reader to become their own guide, writing their own life-book as their code and creed.
Chapter 2
Book the First: In the Exchange
The chapter opens with Khalid and Shakib arriving in New York, immediately confronted by the chaotic and overwhelming nature of the city. They are met by a Syrian acquaintance who guides them through the immigrant experience, including the humiliating process of selling peddler's goods. Khalid, feeling the weight of his heritage and the absurdity of his new life, is deeply conflicted. He meets Secondhand Jerry, a philosophical junk dealer, and is introduced to the idea of a 'Spiritual Household' by a young woman. The chapter follows Khalid's initial struggles, his growing disillusionment with the American Dream, and his first steps toward a different kind of spiritual and political awakening.
Chapter 3
To Man
Khalid addresses humanity with a message of universal love and faith, urging people to look beyond their flaws and suffering. He describes a World-Temple built on the border of East and West, where no false gods are worshipped, and the eternal spirit of the Maker flows from a Fountain. He encourages all to find refreshment and hope in this vision.
Chapter 4
I: Probing the Trivial
The narrator, having obtained the K.L. manuscript, seeks to verify the existence of Khalid, a figure from Baalbek. Through encounters with a sand-diviner and a Cairo hashish-den, he learns of Khalid's notoriety and meets Shakib, Khalid's devoted disciple, who provides the Histoire Intime manuscript. The chapter explores the narrator's doubts and the process of piecing together Khalid's story.
Chapter 5
The City of Baal
This chapter provides a detailed portrait of Baalbek, the City of Baal, contrasting its ancient, majestic ruins with its modern, languid life. It describes the Acropolis, the Temple of Jupiter, and the Temple of Bacchus, reflecting on the passage of time and the layers of history. The narrative then shifts to Khalid's boyhood, detailing his hatred for school and his love for nature and the open air. It recounts his rebellion against his father and uncle, his life as a muleteer, and his eventual success, which culminates in selling his beloved mare to a tourist. This act provides him with the means to emigrate to America, a decision influenced by Shakib and inspired by the setting sun over the Mediterranean.

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Al-Fatihah

Book the First: In the Exchange

To Man

I: Probing the Trivial

The City of Baal