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Hatim 505 - 578 (73)

Do good, and cast it upon the waters.


QUOTES



On Avarice




Hatim Al-Tai was an Arab poet and writer, born around 505 in present-day Saudi Arabia. He was known for his generosity and kindness and even today there is the expression "generous like Hatim". He is a well-known figure throughout the Middle East, many books and movies are still being created about his life which has become a legend. The famous Persian poet Saadi, in his work Gulistan (1259) wrote about him: "Hatim al Taï no longer exists, but his exalted name will forever remain famous for his virtue."

One of his most famous poems is "On Avarice" while one of the most popular works in all of Arabia starring Hatim, is "The story of Hatemtai" which describes his adventures in seven chapters, based on seven sentences, which posed by a beautiful and rich girl, in order to marry the man who will explain or prove these propositions:
1st. What I saw once, I long for a second time.
2nd. Do good, and cast it upon the waters.
3rd. Do no evil; if you do, such shall you meet with.
4th. He who speaks the truth is always tranquil.
5th. Let him bring an account of the mountain of Nida.
6th. Let him produce a pearl (like that which you possess, being) of the size of a duck’s egg.
7th. Let him bring an account of the bath of Bad¬gard.

Hadim Al-Tai, after a life full of adventure and compassion for his fellow human beings, died in 578.