Abou Ben Adhem (poem)

"Abou Ben Adhem" is a poem written by English poet James Henry Leigh Hunt (1784-1859). The poem, published in 1834, tells a brief story about a pious man named Abou Ben Adhem.

The central theme revolves around the idea that true devotion to God is best expressed through love and service to one's fellow human beings. The poem depicts Abou Ben Adhem waking up in the night to find an angel writing in a book of gold. When asked what the angel is writing, the angel replies that it is a list of those who love God. Abou Ben Adhem, finding his name not on the list, asks the angel to write him as one who loves his fellow men. The next night, the angel reappears and shows Abou Ben Adhem a list of those whom God has blessed, and Abou Ben Adhem's name leads all the rest.

The poem's message of prioritizing human kindness and compassion as a form of spiritual devotion remains a widely recognized and appreciated sentiment. It is often cited as an example of religious tolerance and universal brotherhood. The simplicity of its language and narrative contributes to its enduring popularity.