The Alchemist is a symbolic masterpiece that I can read over and over again. I pick it up sometimes to give myself a faith lift. It helps me to remember the importance of following my dreams and that life supports me in this quest.
This is a “new thought” novel that tells the story of a young man’s faith development experience. Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy, travels from his Spanish homeland to the Egyptian desert in search of a treasure buried near the Pyramids. Throughout his adventures in exotic lands, Santiago’s path is shaped by unforgettable lessons and contact with greatness. As we follow the boy’s journey, we begin to deeply contemplate our own.
Though the style of this book may seem simplistic, it contains a great deal of spiritual knowledge. It is the tale’s simplicity that allows profundity to spring forth. The story within a story technique is used frequently throughout the book to shed light on meaningful topics such as the secret of happiness.
There are so many gems to discover in The Alchemist. The idea that luck and coincidence make up the universal language of the world and that there is a Soul of the World, which we can all tap into and gain wisdom will be familiar to Hillsiders. One of my favorite sayings that the book introduced is the Arabic term “Maktub” or “It is written”.
“The boy was beginning to understand that intuition is really a sudden immersion of the soul into the universal current of life, where the histories of all people are connected, and we are able to know everything, because it’s all written there.” (pg. 76)
When I think about “Maktub” a sense of peace comes over me. The mystic feeling that author, Paulo Coelho, delivers on every page of this book, is enchanting.
Paulo Coelho is an international, bestselling, Brazilian author who writes as if he is a Truth student at Hillside. His books have sold more than 23 million copies in 117 countries and have been translated into 41 languages. The universal appeal of his novels lies in their optimism and honesty with which we can all identify.
This fable, told for the purpose of helping you to learn about yourself, has inspired millions around the world and will surely inspire you.. If you’re feeling lost, without purpose, or you’re in the midst of trying to figure out which way to go, I highly recommend The Alchemist. It’s a quick and easy read with lots to love within it.
The Book Lover’s Discussion will be held on May 25th following the 10:30 service. Books are available in Truth & Treasures Bookstore.
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