The Night Visitor: A Tale From Ancient Persia That Will Haunt Your Dreams

Deep within the vibrant tapestry of Iranian folklore lies a story as old as time itself, whispered from generation to generation – “The Night Visitor.” This tale, echoing through the centuries from its humble origins in 8th century Persia, explores themes of fear, greed, and the delicate balance between the tangible and intangible worlds.

“The Night Visitor” unfolds in a remote village nestled amidst rolling hills and fertile plains. Here, an elderly merchant named Reza, renowned for his boundless wealth and miserly ways, becomes the unwitting target of a supernatural encounter. One moonless night, as Reza slumbers soundly in his opulent mansion, a chilling presence makes itself known.

A shadowy figure, cloaked in darkness and radiating an ethereal aura, materializes beside his bed. This enigmatic being, introduced as the “Night Visitor,” proposes a bargain to the terrified merchant: reveal your deepest fear, and I shall grant you unimaginable riches beyond your wildest dreams. Reza, blinded by avarice, readily agrees, confessing his crippling terror of losing his wealth.

The Night Visitor, amused by Reza’s shallow desire, fulfills its promise. The following morning, Reza awakens to find his coffers overflowing with gold and jewels. Ecstatic, he revels in his newfound opulence, indulging in lavish feasts and extravagant purchases. Yet, despite his material abundance, Reza is plagued by an unshakeable unease.

He soon realizes that the price for his greed was far greater than he initially anticipated. The riches, bestowed upon him by the enigmatic Night Visitor, are ephemeral, vanishing as swiftly as they appeared. His once-substantial fortune dwindles with each passing day, leaving Reza stripped of everything he held dear.

Desperate to regain what he has lost, Reza returns to his mansion on another moonless night, pleading with the Night Visitor for a second chance. The spectral being reappears, its ethereal glow casting long shadows across the room. This time, however, the bargain is reversed. Reza must face his deepest fear – the loss of his wealth – head-on.

The Night Visitor challenges Reza to relinquish all material possessions and embrace simplicity. In doing so, he promises to restore Reza’s inner peace and spiritual fulfillment. Initially hesitant, Reza eventually surrenders to the wisdom of the Night Visitor, choosing contentment over greed.

Symbolism and Interpretation:

“The Night Visitor” transcends its surface narrative, offering a profound exploration of human desires and vulnerabilities. The story acts as a cautionary tale against the pitfalls of materialism and the pursuit of wealth at all costs.

• The Night Visitor: This enigmatic figure represents the unknown, the realm beyond our physical comprehension. It embodies both fear and opportunity, urging us to confront our deepest insecurities.
• Reza: The miserly merchant personifies human greed and the insatiable desire for material gain. His journey highlights the futility of seeking happiness solely through external possessions.

Themes:

The story delves into several interconnected themes:

Legacy:

“The Night Visitor” continues to resonate with audiences centuries after its origin. This timeless tale reminds us that true happiness lies not in the accumulation of possessions, but in the cultivation of inner peace and contentment. It serves as a powerful testament to the enduring wisdom found within the tapestry of folklore.