Podcast
Questions and Answers
What did Hafid find when he entered the cave?
What did Hafid find when he entered the cave?
How did Hafid feel when he first entered the cave?
How did Hafid feel when he first entered the cave?
What did Hafid decide to give the family he encountered in the cave?
What did Hafid decide to give the family he encountered in the cave?
What was the significance of the robe Hafid carried?
What was the significance of the robe Hafid carried?
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Why had others bypassed the village where Hafid was trying to sell his goods?
Why had others bypassed the village where Hafid was trying to sell his goods?
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What did Hafid observe about the baby in the cave?
What did Hafid observe about the baby in the cave?
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What did Hafid do after he wrapped the robe around the baby?
What did Hafid do after he wrapped the robe around the baby?
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What was Hafid's initial goal for selling the robe?
What was Hafid's initial goal for selling the robe?
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What emotion does Hafid primarily experience while sitting in the dining hall?
What emotion does Hafid primarily experience while sitting in the dining hall?
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What does Hafid believe he must improve to succeed in selling?
What does Hafid believe he must improve to succeed in selling?
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What does Hafid ultimately decide to do the following day?
What does Hafid ultimately decide to do the following day?
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What does Hafid feel when he approaches a closed door?
What does Hafid feel when he approaches a closed door?
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What does Hafid think about his time spent in Bethlehem?
What does Hafid think about his time spent in Bethlehem?
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What does Hafid recall about his past relationship with Pathros?
What does Hafid recall about his past relationship with Pathros?
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What future prospect does Hafid envision for himself if he becomes successful?
What future prospect does Hafid envision for himself if he becomes successful?
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Study Notes
Hafid's Journey in Bethlehem
- Hafid, a potential salesman, is frustrated by his lack of success selling a red robe in Bethlehem. His fourth day of trying to sell it is proving fruitless.
- He grapples with self-doubt, questioning his pricing, marketing strategy, and perceived unworthiness. He considers giving up and returning to his previous life as a camel boy.
- A turning point occurs when he sees a vulnerable family in a cave – a father, mother, and newborn infant – in need of warmth.
- Moved by their plight, he displays unexpected generosity and compassion.
- He removes the parents' thin cloaks and wraps the baby in his valuable red robe.
- This act of kindness changes Hafid's perspective, leaving him feeling fulfilled rather than dejected.
- His altered priorities signal a shift from solely focusing on personal gain to a broader understanding of human connection.
- The story highlights a contrast between Hafid's initial materialistic desires and the profound impact of empathy and selfless actions.
Hafid's Internal Conflict
- Hafid's initial thoughts revolve around doubts about his abilities as a salesman.
- He questions his skills in persuading potential buyers.
- He contemplates the town's economic landscape to determine if his pricing reflects market value.
- He acknowledges his fear from approaching closed doors, emphasizing the need for overcoming this fear.
- He compares his situation to Pathros, a presumably accomplished salesman with a successful history in the same area.
The Bethlehem Episode
- A family takes shelter in a cave. The family comprises an unnamed father, a mother, and an infant. Their circumstances seem dire.
- The family is situated in a cave traditionally used for storing agricultural material.
- The infant is exceptionally vulnerable due to its newness, thin skin, and exposure to the cold.
- Hafid's initial intention was to sell his robe, but his encounter with the family changes his focus.
Hafid's Act of Generosity
- Hafid's compassion is ignited upon seeing the family and the infant's vulnerability.
- He acts, discarding his own material gain and prioritizing the family's needs.
- He is concerned about the family's welfare. He unselfishly provides warmth and protection by using the robe for them.
- He demonstrates empathy and understanding for the family's impoverished situation.
- This act leaves him more satisfied and content than any monetary gain would have.
Hafid's Transformation
- The experience profoundly transforms Hafid's outlook.
- He prioritizes human connection over material possessions.
- He understands the value of empathy and compassion.
- His initial goals and self-doubt fade into the background.
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Description
Explore the pivotal moments in Hafid's journey as a salesman in Bethlehem. This quiz delves into his struggles with self-doubt and materialism, culminating in an act of kindness that reshapes his perspective on success and human connection. Test your understanding of Hafid's character development and the story's themes.
