During his fifth voyage, Sinbad the Sailor found himself shipwrecked on a lush, deserted island. While exploring, he encountered a frail old man sitting by a stream who gestured for help to cross the water. Out of pity, Sinbad took the man upon his shoulders and waded across. However, once on the other side, the old man refused to get down. Instead, he wrapped his legs—which were as tough as black leather—tightly around Sinbad’s neck, squeezing so hard that Sinbad nearly lost consciousness. For days and nights, the creature remained perched there, forcing Sinbad to carry him through the woods to gather fruit, kicking him whenever he slowed. Desperate, Sinbad found some dried gourds, filled them with grape juice, and let them ferment in the sun. He drank the wine to numb his misery, and seeing Sinbad's joy, the Old Man demanded a drink. The creature became heavily intoxicated, his grip loosened, and Sinbad was finally able to cast him off and crush the monster with a stone, finally reclaiming his freedom.
Kindness must be tempered with caution, and even the heaviest burdens can be overcome through patience and wit.
Questions about this story
What is the moral of Sinbad and the Old Man of the Sea?
The moral is that while charity is a virtue, one must be wary of those who might exploit your kindness. It also teaches that intelligence and strategic thinking can solve problems that physical strength cannot.
Which of Sinbad's voyages involves the Old Man of the Sea?
This encounter takes place during Sinbad's fifth voyage, which begins after he sets sail from Baghdad and survives a shipwreck caused by angry Rocs.
How did Sinbad defeat the Old Man of the Sea?
Sinbad fermented grape juice in gourds to create wine. He tricked the Old Man into getting drunk, which caused the creature to loosen his iron-like grip, allowing Sinbad to throw him off.
Who is the Old Man of the Sea in the Arabian Nights?
He is depicted as a malevolent, parasitic creature who tricks travelers into carrying him, then enslaves them by never letting go of their shoulders.
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Good night.
