The Concept of the Hand that Wrote All
The AlchemistThe 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.
increasing
Bearing strength in each event
decreasing
The 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 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 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 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