The Prophet by Khalil Gibran

"The Prophet," written by Khalil Gibran, is a collection of poetic essays that delve into various aspects of life. The narrative follows the prophet Almustafa, who is about to board a ship that will take him home after twelve years of exile in the city of Orphalese. Before he departs, he engages with a group of people, offering his wisdom on topics fundamental to human experience.

Summary

The Coming of the Ship

Almustafa, poised to return to his birth island, feels a deep connection and a sense of loss for Orphalese. As his ship approaches, the people of Orphalese gather, longing for his guidance on various life themes.

On Love

Almustafa describes love as a transformative force that demands sacrifice and vulnerability but also offers growth and depth of experience.

On Marriage

He speaks of marriage as a union of two individuals who should maintain their individuality, comparing it to two trees growing together but not overshadowing each other.

On Children

Almustafa sees children as life’s longing for itself, emphasizing that parents should respect their children’s individuality and freedom.

On Giving

He views giving as a natural expression of the human spirit, more meaningful when it involves personal sacrifice rather than just material things.

On Eating and Drinking

He portrays eating and drinking as a spiritual act, where even the consumption of food and drink should be approached with reverence and gratitude.

On Work

Almustafa encourages finding joy and purpose in work, seeing it as a way to connect with life's deepest truths.

On Joy and Sorrow

He explains that joy and sorrow are inseparable, each giving depth and understanding to the other.

On Houses

Almustafa urges people to view their homes not just as physical structures but as spaces for personal growth and freedom.

On Clothes

He discusses the symbolism of clothes, relating them to freedom and self-expression, but also to societal constraints.

On Buying and Selling

Almustafa highlights the importance of integrity and love in transactions, which should not be merely economic but human interactions.

On Crime and Punishment

He offers a compassionate view on crime and punishment, focusing on understanding and empathy rather than strict judgement.

On Laws

Almustafa's approach to laws is not rigid; he emphasizes that true freedom involves understanding and embracing life's challenges. He urges the people to look within themselves for the source of their laws and limitations.