In the kingdom of the Indies, a Sultan had three sons: Houssain, Ali, and Ahmed. To decide who should marry their cousin, Princess Nouronnihar, the Sultan sent them on a quest to find the world's most extraordinary rarity. Houssain returned with a magic carpet that could transport anyone instantly; Ali brought an ivory tube that revealed anything one wished to see; and Ahmed found an artificial apple that cured any disease. When the princes discovered through the tube that the princess was dying, they used the carpet to reach her and the apple to save her. Since all three contributed equally, the Sultan declared an archery contest. Ahmed’s arrow flew so far it vanished. Searching for it, he discovered a cavern leading to the magnificent palace of the fairy Peri-Banu. She confessed she had drawn his arrow to her, and the two fell in love and married. However, the Sultan, fueled by the jealousy of a sorceress, began demanding impossible gifts from Ahmed: a tent that could cover an entire army yet fit in a hand, and the Water of Life. With Peri-Banu’s magical aid, Ahmed fulfilled every task. Eventually, the Sultan's hostility forced a confrontation where Peri-Banu’s brother, the giant Schaibar, intervened. The Sultan was deposed, and Ahmed ascended to the throne, ruling wisely alongside his fairy queen.
True virtue and humility often lead to greater rewards than those sought through mere competition or material gain.
Questions about this story
What is the moral of Prince Ahmed and the Fairy Peri-Banu?
The story teaches that genuine merit and kindness lead to supernatural favor. It also highlights that jealousy and greed can lead to a leader's downfall, while those with pure intentions find true happiness.
What were the three magical items the brothers found?
Prince Houssain found a flying magic carpet, Prince Ali found an ivory telescope that could see anywhere, and Prince Ahmed found a magic apple that cured all illnesses.
Who is Peri-Banu in the story?
Peri-Banu is a powerful and wealthy fairy queen who lives in a hidden subterranean palace. She falls in love with Prince Ahmed and uses her magic to help him survive the Sultan's impossible demands.
How does Prince Ahmed find the fairy palace?
During an archery contest, Ahmed's arrow disappears. While searching for it among the rocks, he finds the arrow far beyond where any mortal could shoot, leading him to the entrance of Peri-Banu's realm.
Advertisement
Good night.
