The Concept of the Hand that Wrote All

The Alchemist

The idea of a divine hand that writes the destiny of all things, and the power of prayer to connect with it, culminating in Santiago's miracle.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
The Sun's Reference to the HandThe Sun's Reference to the Hand
The Ultimate Authority The Sun's Limitation The sun admits it does not know how to turn a man into the wind. It advises Santiago to speak to the hand that wrote all. The Hand as Creator This hand is the source of all creation. It wrote the universe. The Prayer Santiago turns to the hand and prays without words. This is the highest form of communication.
Santiago's PrayerSantiago's Prayer
The Silent Prayer The Content He does not ask for anything; he simply gives thanks and understands. He sees that the hand had a reason for everything. The Connection He reaches through to the Soul of the World and sees it as part of the Soul of God. His own soul is the same. The Miracle He becomes the wind. The hand responds to his faith.
The Legend of the Boy Who Turned into the WindThe Legend of the Boy Who Turned into the Wind
The Story Spreads The Miraculous Tale The Arabs recount the legend of a boy who turned into the wind. It becomes a story of faith. The Hand's Glory The chief recognizes the glory of God. The hand is honored. The Enduring Lesson The event shows that the hand is always within reach for those who seek it.
The Alchemist's Story of the CenturionThe Alchemist's Story of the Centurion
The Hand in History The Centurion's Words A Roman centurion said to Jesus, "My Lord, I am not worthy that you should come under my roof. But only speak a word and my servant will be healed." The Point Everyone plays a central role in history, often without knowing it. The hand writes the script. Santiago's Role He has played his role. The hand has guided him.
the transformation scene
the transformation scene
after the event
at the monastery