The Lucky Hand

The Bereaved Father and His Son

Long ago, a certain merchant’s wife died, leaving behind a son for the father to bring up. He raised his son with great care, lavishing all his affection on the lad.

After a few days, the merchant fell ill. His condition worsened, and the doctors declared he would not survive. Knowing death was near, he called his son to his side and said, “Son, even if you touch sand, it must turn into gold. This is my wish.”

The Son’s Tribute

Following his father’s death, the young man ventured into business and quickly reaped a massive profit. Then, he thought back to his father’s dying wish. He attributed all his success to his father’s final injunction. Despite his wealth, he did not wish to hoard it. Instead, he started buying goods at higher prices and selling them at cheaper rates. His venture led him to buy loads of dates, which he sold at significantly lower prices in Egypt.

The King’s Query

News of this unusual business practice reached the King of Egypt, who summoned the young man. “Young man,” the King questioned, “why do you sell your goods at a loss, thereby losing all your money?” The young man answered, “Your Majesty, just before his death, my father said that everything I touched would turn into gold. I started my business and made enormous profits. However, I didn’t like the idea of accumulating wealth, so I began buying at higher prices and selling at lower rates to reduce my earnings.”

A Twist of Fate

To the King’s skepticism, the young man swore by the Almighty that his tale was true. As if to prove his point, he bent down, picked up a handful of dust and let it spill from his hand. Among the residue, a shining object was revealed. The young man identified the object as a gold ring, not knowing it was, in fact, the King’s long-lost jewelry. Despite relentless searching, none could locate that ring until that moment.

An Unexpected Reward

Overjoyed, the King exclaimed, “Young man, I believe you now. Your father was right. You do indeed have a lucky hand. In honour of this, I shall marry my daughter to you, and may you live happily ever after.” Thus, the young man married the princess and, in later years, ascended to the throne of Egypt.