Who Sheik Ilderim is
Sheik Ilderim enters Judah's story among the allies he finds near Antioch. He is a hearty, generous man whose fine Arabian horses give him a practical way to support Judah.
His warmth belongs to a part of the novel shaped by friendship and renewed loyalty. After Judah's suffering, Ilderim helps make the prospect of action possible again.
What Sheik Ilderim wants
Ilderim hates Rome and hopes to find a champion to drive his team. He sees that possibility in Judah, who has trained as a charioteer under Quintus Arrius.
He offers Judah his four Arabian horses for the great games at Antioch. The planned contest places his horses against Messala, Judah's former friend and a man closely tied to Roman power.
Sheik Ilderim and the others in the story
Ilderim and Judah work together through long days of training before the race. Judah learns the temperament of each horse as he prepares to drive the sheik's team.
Their alliance brings Ilderim's hostility toward Rome together with Judah's wish to humble Messala. For Judah, the preparation also runs alongside his continuing search for his mother and sister.
Questions
Who is Sheik Ilderim in Ben-Hur?
Sheik Ilderim is an Arab chieftain who becomes one of Judah's allies near Antioch.
How does Sheik Ilderim help Judah?
He lends Judah his team of four Arabian horses and works with him as he prepares to race against Messala.
Why does Sheik Ilderim support Judah?
Ilderim hates Rome and regards Judah as a possible champion to drive his horses.
