Story Summary
Discover the classic tale of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves. After uncovering a secret cave of gold, a poor woodcutter must outmaneuver a band of deadly robbers.
In the land of Persia, a humble woodcutter named Ali Baba happened upon a secret hidden in the mountains. He watched as a band of forty thieves approached a massive rock and cried, 'Open Sesame!' To his amazement, the rock split open, revealing a cave filled with gold and jewels. Once the thieves departed, Ali Baba used the magic words, entered the cave, and took just enough gold to provide for his family. His wealthy but greedy brother, Cassim, soon discovered the secret. Blinded by avarice, Cassim entered the cave but forgot the exit phrase 'Close Sesame,' becoming trapped and eventually killed by the returning thieves. When Ali Baba found his brother’s body, he brought it home, leading the thieves to realize someone else knew their secret. The Captain of the thieves tracked Ali Baba down, hiding his men inside large oil jars to stage a midnight ambush. However, Ali Baba’s clever slave girl, Morgiana, discovered the plot. She poured boiling oil into the jars, killing the hidden bandits. Later, when the Captain returned disguised as a merchant to seek revenge, Morgiana recognized him and performed a deadly dagger dance, ending his life. Through her wit and Ali Baba’s humility, the family lived in peace and prosperity forever.
The Moral
Greed and lack of caution lead to ruin, whereas wit, loyalty, and modesty bring lasting security and success.
“Open Sesame!”
Fun Fact
This story was actually added to the 'One Thousand and One Nights' by French translator Antoine Galland in the 18th century; it does not appear in the original Arabic manuscripts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves?
The story teaches that greed leads to destruction, as seen with Cassim's fate. Conversely, it shows that intelligence and loyalty, personified by Morgiana, are more valuable than stolen riches.
What is the meaning of the phrase 'Open Sesame'?
It is a magical phrase used to open the mouth of the thieves' cave. Linguistically, it may refer to the way sesame pods burst open upon reaching maturity, revealing their seeds.
Who is the true hero of the story?
While Ali Baba is the protagonist, many scholars consider Morgiana the true hero. Her quick thinking and bravery repeatedly save Ali Baba from the thieves' deadly plots.
How did the thieves try to ambush Ali Baba?
The thieves hid inside thirty-nine large oil jars, while their captain disguised himself as an oil merchant. They planned to emerge at night and kill Ali Baba while he slept.
Why did Cassim die in the cave?
Cassim was consumed by greed and forgot the magic words needed to exit the cave. He became trapped inside, allowing the thieves to find and execute him for his intrusion.
Is Ali Baba originally part of the Arabian Nights?
No, it was not in the original Arabic collection. It was added to the 'One Thousand and One Nights' by French translator Antoine Galland, who heard it from a Syrian storyteller.