Ben-Hur, Part 7, Chapter 5 summary
Part 7, Chapter 5 of 88 · Book 1 · 12 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 5, Ben-Hur, Balthasar, and Iras reach Bethabara, where John the Nazarite identifies a stranger as the Son of God and Balthasar collapses with emotion. Ben-Hur recognizes his former helper at Nazareth and begins to question whether the Redeemer can also be a king, despite his unworldly appearance.
What happens
- At the Jabbok River, a traveler tells the party about John the Nazarite and his preaching at Bethabara.
- The party reaches the Jordan after the sermon ends, and John's rough appearance disappoints Ben-Hur.
- John points toward a stranger and identifies him as the Son of God; Balthasar recognizes him and collapses.
- Ben-Hur recognizes the stranger as the man who helps him at Nazareth, but turns aside to assist Balthasar.
- The next day, Ben-Hur sees the stranger again, considers whether Redeemer and king can coincide, and hears that he is a carpenter's son.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The question brings Balthasar's faith and Simonides's view into a possible agreement. Ben-Hur considers kingship beyond the military power he expects.
Quick check
Why does Ben-Hur turn away instead of paying homage to the stranger?
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