Amit Chakrabarti · 20 July 1999

About time this chestnut appeared on this list, eh? I’ve always had (still do) one crib about this poem. It is overwhelmingly didactic. But perhaps the use of this poem as a good lesson to be taught to kids colours my opinion here.
-Amit.

Harry Posey · 29 December 2001

I adore this poem. Being American educated, it was not “inflicted” upon me and I had never heard of Leigh Hunt. I’m trying to find out more about the background of the poem and its seemingly Arabian slant.

Ray.Mills · 27 January 2002

Hope by “date” you don’t mean the date the poem was written. Abou ben Adhem is certainly older than that. RM

Julia Spencer · 20 March 2002

I learned this poem as a child in school in ala.It always gave me a sense of contentment, too bad the children of today are not blessed with literary works such as this.

ShawnSkg · 29 March 2002

I had a dream about the Abou Tribe and I am looking for any infromation you could share with me about what it is or was, or any readings that could answer my questions. Thank you!

Shawn

BW · 28 May 2002

Some 60 years ago, my mother used to recite this poem to me as a boy. I recall that it was a source of wonder and comfort to me in times that were generally hard. As the years passed, I forgot some of the words, but never the feelings which the poem inspired. Until a few days ago, I was not aware of the name of the poet or the extent to which the poem was known. Now that I know and can see the verse because of this website, it’s like hearing my mother again. Thank you.

Waranowitz Ben · 31 May 2002

I agree with most about this poem, which I first heard in 5th grade. It was many years later when I was assisted by a librarian who found it, but first came across this poem by a person named Bothroyd:

Abou Ben Adhem’s name led all the rest..
Prompting a thesis, quite hypothethetical,
That even recording angels find it best,
To keep us Hypothetical.

- Bothroyd

Adarsh Kadambi · 31 July 2002

I can never thank you enough for having put up this poem on your web site.!…I still remember my 3rd standard English teacher reciting this poem to us and explaining it in all detail. Like some one else on this list has already mentioned, the feeling that this poem inspired in me ,some 15 odd years ago, still live on!. Actually, I was in search of the words…and to predicament, didn’t know the author’s name. Amazing, not many of us on this list remember the author (bless him! ) of such a wonderful poem!
Aadarsh Kadambi
Bangalore
India

Irvine Churchward · 13 August 2002

My sincere thanks for listing this poem on the Web. It is the only poem of many that I learned at school some 50 years ago that I remember most of the words of. I only had two lines wrong. It is a family joke of ours (a bit irreverent I suppose) that I would hold my children and make them sit through a few renditions of Abou Ben Adhem as a punishment but usually just for fun.
It is a very special poem to me. Thanks again.

Irv

Waranowitz Ben · 18 August 2002

I made an error in the last line, corrected here:

Abou Ben Adhem’s name led all the rest..
Prompting a thesis, quite hypothethetical,
That even recording angels find it best,
To keep us alphabetical.
- Bothroyd

Martha Crocker · 4 September 2002

I have the greatest pleasure of being able to spend time with my mother (86 years old). I am an executive recruiter and was speaking with a Candidate of mine and shared with him the information that I was writing my mother’s memoirs. Mom grew up in Bronx, his dad in Manhattan, and we soon discovered that both had to memorize this poem, which became an all time favorite of both. Even at 86 Mom remembers every word.

Martha Crocker
IMPACT Search and Strategies
1124 Richmond Road
Litchfield, Maine

Hsmith1970m · 21 November 2002

I’m in the process of Reading “The Nicholas Effect” by Reg Green , a fathers story of the impact that was made on thw word after the lost of his Child. This Poem was mwantioned in the Book, and I’ve never heard of it, before now, but it well be a poem, I use with the Children in my life.

Thank You

AM · 26 November 2002

I’m Spanish. It’s only a few days ago I’ve discovered this poem. I open wide my eyes and ears on reading it. Just to say it’s a wonderful poem, as it whispers to me my inner child.

Regards,

A.M.

Chauncey Adams · 5 December 2002

This Poem inspired my wife and I to name our son Ben Adams, now getting his Ph.D. in Psychology at Columbia University.

SmithMS10000 · 10 January 2003

I just had to add to the chorus my almost total recall of this poem which I had to memorize. I don’t even remember the grade, possibly 5th, which would have been around 1954. Strange I can remember that stuff and can’t remember what happened yesterday!

Gopal R (BLR) · 17 February 2003

Like most others who have commented on this poem, i too had the pleasure (or was it really, when we had to memorise & repeat) of re-reading this after many years. Strangely, just after reading 2 lines, the whole poem came back to me in an instant.

Truly, only later in life, does one really appreciate the quality of education we had earlier.

Thank you for putting this up.

gopal,
bangalore, india

Clark Whetten · 17 February 2003

I’m using this poem in a eulogy that I am preparing for my father in law. Didactic or not, it still brings tears to my eyes every time I recite it. I imagine making school children memorize it speaks for the quality of education that was existent in the old days that is non-existent now. Can’t have the little dears strain their brains now can we.

Clark Whetten

Paul Nay · 4 April 2003

Moving to find this poem today after reading the report of the Iraqi who helped rescue Pfc Jessica Lynch. It would be interesting to rate cultures, religions, and countries by the proportion of Abou ben Admens they produce. In fact, what better claim to respect is there?

Paul Nay
Santa Barbara, California, USA

Olderbart · 6 April 2003

The Iraqian attorney (and his nurse wife) - whose compassion at the sight of Jessica Lynch getting knocked around led him to the rescue machinery - is the 2003 real time version of Abou Ben Adhem. I don’t believe many people under 40 know this poem. It would be good to see the parallel drawn in the press.

Rodger

SIOBHANFROMNJ · 8 April 2003

What a joy to see this poem again. I had to memorize it at St. Cecilia’s Academy in Scranton, Pa. many many years ago. (I’m 83!) For some reason it popped into my head recently & I couldn’t get it out of my mind.. Finding it on the web was wonderful & brought back many happy memories. Thank you SO much…. Siobhanfromnj

dworkinla · 9 April 2003

yes I had to memorize this one too-I still love it a great poem–would make a great addition to any childhood education and an even better one to adult refresher education. imho

Arlene · 13 April 2003

Thank you so much for including this wonderful poem, I too have memories of grade school some 50 plus years ago and never had it please me more than today,, will pass it on,,,,Arlene

EasilyAmusedGirl · 23 April 2003

Wow, I was doing a project and I get to choose any poem I want by Leigh Hunt. I am inspired by how this has inspired all of you. Thanks for making a late-night cram session more enjoyable

CHRIS WHITEHEAD · 26 April 2003

Thank you so much for posting this poem. I have read all of the comments and can agree with most. My grandfather read this poem to my cousin and myself as young children, and to hear him tell this poem was the best part of the day. He has been gone for quite some time now, however, this poem has never left my mind. My husband and I are pregnant with our first child, and immediately I remembered the poem. This is a classic poem, one that I want to pass on to my children to allow the memory of my grandfather to live on. My heart is full of joy, thank you.

Tamer Miriam · 6 May 2003

My father, a life long atheist/agnostic, gave each of us, his children, a book of poems which included Abou. After having worked for peace and understanding all his life including all the peace walks, sit ins, and gatherings of the 60’s, this poem will be read as a tribute to him at the memorial service we are having in a few days. It certainly speaks volumes.

Martin DeMello · 10 May 2003

Dear Sitaram Iyer:
Has anyone pointed out that Abou Ben Adhem’s name might very well have led all the rest if the names on the list were given in alphabetical order? Leigh Hunt wrote at a time when jokes of this kind were not unusual in English poetry.

Isaac Asimov did - I mentioned the fact in my original commentary :) I must say, though, that I didn’t think of it being deliberate on Hunt’s part - excellent point, that. Interestingly, it would hold true even in Arabic, since alif is the first letter of the alphabet.

martin

A.H. Marks · 10 May 2003

Dear Sitaram Iyer:

Has anyone pointed out that Abou Ben Adhem’s name might very well have led all the rest if the names on the list were given in alphabetical order? Leigh Hunt wrote at a time when jokes of this kind were not unusual in English poetry.

Alfred H. Marks

Grady W Eaton · 13 June 2003

Been Curious about “ABOU” for a long time. Late 40’s is when I had to make a stab at memorizing this one. YES! In School, no less! Us gutter- minded teen-agers had our own version which was a lot easier to recite. Thanks for having this available .

Gene Oshea · 20 July 2003

My DA is 87 years old and lives in the States. Both he and my late mother were born and raised in Ireland. Visiting with my Da today in his garden he had a small stone angel sitting reading from a book. He said “you know when I was a child I had to memorize a poem about some Abou Ben Adhem. Lines of the poem keep going through my head now but I can’t remember all of it. I loved it so much. all I remember is -“ then he went on to recite the 1st 9 lines of the poem. He wondered how he could ever remember the rest. I cam home and of course this site popped up on an internet Search. I have read the various comments and am touched my them. I can only say me Da too is a witness as to its long lasting power. And perhaps its return to many in later life. Peace to All.
Gene O’

Mary McCann · 5 August 2003

When other little girls were read fairy tales at bedtime, night after night, my father recited Abou Ben Adhem & The Gettysburg Address to me. I grew up with a vision of the world our sacrifices can build for our children. I think I have a deeper inner peace, because of the beliefs my father framed for me with those words. As Always Am2Mc

Auggie & Sally · 17 August 2003

While visiting my mother (at age 92, with dementia) in her nursing home, during a “Sing a long” she got up and was able to recite this wonderful poem with just a few words missing. I love this poem and like a few others could not remember the authors name but finally found it and was able to print this poem for a very dear friend of mine that was just diagnosed with cancer. I read the comments above and do not feel the author meant for Abou’s name to lead all the rest for alphabetical reasons at all.

Dundore David · 31 August 2003

Hi Shawn,

‘Abou’ means ‘father of’ in Arabic, and ‘ben Adhem’ means ‘of the tribe of Adam.’ So I believe that the name is an idiosyncrasy, meaning “A father from the tribe of Adam’ which could be about any one of us.

alison.austin · 2 September 2003

I was delighted to find your website. I am fortunate enough to own the collected works of James Henry Leigh Hunt (1784-1859), in 2 volumes , first editions published in 1859. They are full of wonderful poems, but this is my favourite too

Jewell · 10 September 2003

I noticed someone said that they had not had the poem “inflicted” on them. I had to memorize it in school, but I feel very fortunate that I did; I have refereed to it often, even though I could not remember all the words. Thank you for your site. I enjoyed roving through it.

Ruby Rose

David Upton · 4 October 2003

I had to memorize this poem when I was 7 and in the second grade. I am now 56 and can still recite much of it.

Fr David Upton
St Andrew’s Episcopal Church
400 Pendleton St
Greenville SCOM)

Rachel Jenkins · 15 December 2003

I learned this poem in school in the 6th grade (1951-52) in Indiana. Bless the teacher who gave it to me to memorize. It is the only poem that has stuck with me - always a favorite for its simple meaning.

Bjoycebeme · 7 January 2004

Even if Abou Ben Adhem’s name led the rest because of alphabetical order, it is still noteworthy that it made that particular list and obviously in response to his statement the previous night.

Kashif Adhami · 8 March 2004

I am one of his tribe members, which has been increasing since his days and with many bounties from the Almighty. Our parents and grandparents have told us many stories of our ancestor, and the main idea behind each one them was to make us understand that “God loves those who show respect and love for God’s creatures”, Leigh Hunt in his poem “ABOU BEN ADHEM” more then the persona of ABOU BEN ADHEM, is trying teach us the same.

Julie Carrara · 17 March 2004

I love this poem, as you do. It is something I learned in fifth grade, (I am now 62) and it has recently been going through my head. I remembered much of it, even the spelling of the title, but was missing a few lines. A friend suggested I look it up on the internet, and lo and behold it is here. Wonderful!. Now I have it all. Charlene Lord

Julie Carrara · 17 March 2004

Isn’t it amazing how the poem Abou ben Adhem comes back to one after so many years? I memorized it as a child and have remembered almost all of it, except for a few lines. How wonderful to have found it all here. Yes, we did get a wonderful education in those days. I am 62 now, and memorized this in fifth grade in El Paso, Texas. Charlene

Jane H. King · 26 March 2004

My dad was born in 1910. He taught me this poem and one about a Pretty Chicken before I entered school. I am now trying to keep my mind alive and well – I’m giving poetry recitations and have included both of these. Thanks to all who made their comments and to the site for choosing this poem - whatever the reason might have been for Ben Adhem’s name to lead the rest. Jane Heart for the Harvest Promoting Shared Witness and Ministry with Hispanic Persons

Jane H. King
Consultant to Hispanic/Latino Ministry Northwest Texas Annual Conference, UMC 1415 Avenue M
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Add me to your address book…

Blanchard Rosemary A · 24 April 2004

Maybe it says something about American education in the 50’s and early 60’s, but I was never introduced to this poem in school - either as a verse to memorize or even a verse to think about. Fortunately, my mother had a much more centered idea of what was important than the local public school. I can hear the gentle sound that came over her voice as she would recite or read it to me (she did both). Her tone made it sound wonderful (which it is). I was thinking about it tonight and ran an internet search. I’ve enjoyed your list of comments. This is a gentle, wise little poem.

Rosemary Ann Blanchard

Sacramento, CA 95819

Establishing lasting peace is the work of education. All politics can do is keep us out of war.

Maria Montessori

Mike White · 18 June 2004

I am 59 and a grandfather
Everyone in my class was given a poetry book by my high school teacher in England and told to pick a poem to learn and later recite as part of a test. I picked “Abou Ben Adhem”. I ws practising at home when my mother (now 80) came into the room and started reciting it. In her day at high school, she had also been given a poetry book to pick a poem from and had chosen the same poem. I have used this poem as a creed to live with and have endeavoured to teach the poem both as a poem and as a creed to my children. Michael C F White, Los Angeles, June 2004

Liz Keefer · 28 June 2004

Abou was “inflicted” on my mother and was a recitation in grade school. Mom passed away in 2001 and in her last week on earth still could recite Abou.Sometimes over the years she had to pause until the words came but the words were always there.I printed your page for my memory book.Thank You, Liz Keefer

Harriett Gray · 29 June 2004

From two old ladies in their eighties:

My friend called last night and said: “Do you remember a poem that began -

Abou Ben Adam may his tribe increase and I answered:

Awoke one night from a deep dream of peace!

We both had it reappear from long ago in grade school and now what a thrill to find all this info here on the Web - I am copying the poem to send to my friend - thank you.

Rocktapper · 28 July 2004

Abou Ben Adham…. this is a poem for humanity not to forget there Lord. Abou Ben Adhem in Arabic means Children of Adam…. this has a very Islamic message and style in writing. But its message goes out to all people who believe in a higher being!

GJgaudia · 1 August 2004

Funny, but as an atheist I see this poem (which I learned in P.S. 48 in the Bronx around 1937) as a statement about Humanism more than God. I have always wondered why my Catholic Irish-spinster teachers wanted us to learn it since it seems more secular than theistic. Anyway, I awoke this morning “from a deep dream of peace” thinking of Abou Ben Adam and had to consult Google to find out more about it.

Chellappa Mallika (Mallika) · 2 August 2004

And then there’s the parody by Cracked Magazine (circa 60s/70s)
Sylvester Ben Janitor, may his tribe decrease Awoke one night from a deep dream of geese
And saw, within the gaslight in his room
Making it rich, and like crabgrass in bloom
A Clod, writing in a book of gold
An exceptional line had made Ben Janitor bold And to the Clod in the room he said
“Wha-a-a-a? “ The Clod raised its head
And, with a look that was racked
Answered, “I write the names of those who love Cracked” “And is mine one?” saind Sylvester. “No”
Said the Clod. Sylvester spoke more low
But drearily still, and said, “If it’s not stacked Write me as one that’s a lover of Cracked.”
The Clod wrote and vanished. The next night
He came again in a great mazda of light
And showed the names of those who thought Cracked was fun And Lo - Syvester’s was the only one!

This may have mistakes. Please excuse.

Was reminded of this when a fellow Minstrels
member sent me the Mad parody of Hiawatha.

Mallika

B · 10 August 2004

Osama ben Laden

Osama ben Laden (his tribe did much increase) Awoke one night from a deep dream of peace

And saw within the stillness of his room Making it rich as a lily in bloom

A houri writing in a book of gold. Exceeding peace had made ben Laden bold

And to the presence in his room, he said “What writest thou?”

The houri raised her head And with a look of all sweet accord

“The names of those who love Allah (the Lord).”

“And is mine one?”. asked Osama. “Nay not so”. replied the houri.

Osama spoke more low but cheerily still “Write me as one who loves to kill.”

The houri wrote and vanished. The next night she came again in a bright blaze of light

And showed the names of those whom Allah has kissed And, Lo! ben Ahdem’s name’s not on the list.

Raman Juanita · 13 August 2004

This poem was not inflicted on me. As a 7th-grader in Canada, more than 50 years ago, I inflicted it on myself when we were assigned to memorize any poem in our book that we wished. I have never ceased to love it but could not recall the words “But cheerily still.” Thank you for supplying them! I wept, right here at my desk, reading through the whole poem AND the comments submitted. (Incidentally, BW, my mother used to recite the last lines of Hunt’s “The Glove and the Lions”: “Not love, quoth he, but vanity, sets love a task like that.”)

Gail Bonnell · 25 August 2004

I can’t believe so many people remember and have memorized this poem. My father memorized it as a small child. He died in 2001 at the age of 89 but could recite every single word. I had the poem printed out and on display at his memorial service. Thanks for a sad but happy memory. Gail

Gail Bonnell · 18 September 2004

I am absolutely amazed at the number of people whose parents memorized this poem in school. My father died in 1991 at the age of 89 and I had this poem read at his memorial service. He loved it so and could remember every word of it up until his death.
Gail Bonnell
Louisville, KY

Michael · 19 September 2004

Dear ssiyer,
I new this poem almost by heart when I was but a teenager (more than three decades ago) but the exact words grew faint over the years (the words, not the message). The trials of recent events in my life have compelled me to learn of it so I may know and pass on to dear friends for their comfort. As I typed the letters of the title in the ‘search’ bar, I had no idea my quest would end so quickly. Tears filled my eyes when I saw this sight, so quickly processed and leading the list. I not know this poem had touched the lives of and brought comfort to so many. Surely, some of them, as I, not enjoying the peace of knowing for certain that there even is a God. I intend to copy this verse and learn it again and hold it dear and pass it on. Thanks and gratitude to you both you and Mr. Hunt, Michael
Southern Indiana, U.S.A.

Rhonda Laues · 30 September 2004

I’ve always wondered why my heart was so full of God’s love! This poem was recited to me by my mother as a child at bedtime. She would start by having me repeat, “Abou Ben Adhem by Leigh Hunt”. What a positive and encouraging piece to put in the heart of a child! I know it so well, I was prepared to correct it’s content on this webpage had ONE word been incorrect. It was flawless! Thanks for sharing it with those of us who are familiar, and those who may need it!

Wynton Adams · 24 October 2004

In doing research for my wife on the poem “Abou Ben Adhem” I came across your comments and the name Chauncey got my attention. In 1941 a Chauncey Adams contacted my father, A. Leon Adams, as Chauncey was compiling an Adams family history. Said Chauncey at that time was a retired minister and secretary of the Vermont Congregational Conference. He later moved to Claremont, CA. Please let me know if we may have the same ancestry. My granddaughter is now the keeper of the family tree. She would be pleased to know of more recent members of the family that you may know of. Sincerely, Wynton B. Adams, 795 County Road 1, #145, Palm Harbor, FL 34683

Blaine Sturgess · 9 November 2004

From B Sturgess -London Nov10th 2004
My mother recited this poem to me many times -and I always thought the moral very valid .Now even more so when certain people in certain religions believe they have a monopoly on God.

Emma Cottrell · 1 December 2004

I too have remembered this poem all my life and wanted to print a copy for a friend who is from Germany. I am amazed at the the comments of the “prettiness” of the poem, and the failure of most to understand its true meaning. For years I have shied away from the “I love Jesus” and “Do you know Jesus loves you?” proclaimers and how we must shout to the heavens of our love of God. This poem says it all. Stop your “Bible thumping” and “showing off” about religion. If you are interested only in show, then shout and sing and proclaim all you want, but if you really want to live a rich and full life, then “love your fellow man”. That is what living is all about and it is the hardest thing to do. Also, remember that charity starts at your own hearth and spreds out to the world - so take care of your own first - and then spred that love around you. It will radiate out and you will be blessed. James Leigh Hunt wrote from the heart - and was a very wise man. He wasn’t writing just a pretty poem to catch your fancy, he was giving you a goal to reach.

Bill Baker · 17 December 2004

Leigh Hunt’s Abou Ben Adhem, and “Invictus”, by William Henley, have been guiding lights for most of my 90+ years. You don’t have to be religious to appreciate the value that loving your fellow man brings. The whole (society) is greater than the sum of its parts (people). Without co-operation It would be a survival of the fittest jungle.

Kay Howard · 3 January 2005

I also learned this beautiful poem way back in the late forties. I have recited it over and over for my four children, and even my husband, who had never heard it. (He was from Ohio.) Who would have thought that such outstanding poetry would come from the mouth of someone from West Virginia? I can still recite all 55 W.Va. counties in alphabetical order, and draw a map of the state, and include all the cities. Thank God for that “Backward State!” Kay

Joe Gormley · 10 January 2005

This poem was not ‘inflicted’ on me. Instead it was sent to me by my “Ex’s” mother almost 30 years ago. I still have the original that she sent me. I very much loved my “Ex” and her mother, who was a wonderful person. The mother has since passed away, but tonight I ran across the poem she sent me many years ago and I smiled at her memory.
I can see by the earlier posts that this poem has touched many lives in many strange and wonderful ways.

Peace, Joie Gormley

Poetal1 · 10 January 2005

I certainly do not feel Abou Ben Adhem was inflicted on me as a child. I have never been an avid reader but this was one thing that I remember enjoying all of it. Although I didn’t have to memorize it, I remember going back and re-reading it several times. I believe that angel helped me by showing we should love our fellow men. But I also feel this was one of the reasons I have become a poet.

Terry Graham · 22 January 2005

When I rewrite this beautiful poem that I never forgot a word of since the fifties, I change the angel to “She”.

I had a similar remarkable baptism in the Spirit in 1971 through which I came to realize that the Holy Spirit is the feminine within God and woman is her created imagery. Solomon knows this too. Wisdom is Her name. Proverbs, chapters 1 to 8 and the “Wisdom of Solomon” in the Jerusalem Bible will prove it to anyone honestly seeking.

Men are images of the “Word”, the masculine, the Father, within the nature of God.

Terry
Salt Spring Island

C Hall · 28 January 2005

I am now sixty three years old. This poem has stayed in my head since I was given a Children’s Encyclopedia for Xmas when I was about eleven (I think), and I learnt it off by heart.

I was most surprised when I read in the Daily Telegraph that someone was enquiring about it, which prompted me to look it up on my computer. What a wonderful memory.

Carmen Hall

Chon-Hee Ngui · 30 January 2005

Just the second line, “Awoke one night from a deep dream of peace” sets the calm, tranquil mood of the poem - how beautiful! The poem has been a favourite of mine for many years.

I sometimes quote from it when discussion on religion becomes passionate and heated-up.

It gently reminds us what God and goodness is all about.

mcd_1 · 1 February 2005

I cannot remember where I first heard or read this poem. It was certainly many many years ago…I am 72 now, and for some reason, it popped into my head. A google search found your site…and I thank you for the poem and the site. McDaniel

WalterGeezer · 6 February 2005

‘….inspired my wife and I …….
geesh! Ben could never forgive you for publishing that grammatical abortion..

Well, I suppose it is not as bad as the current ‘ValleyGirl’ vowel swapping. You know, Happy becomes Hoppy; Best Friend becomes Bust Frund.

OK, OK , Aquila Non Capit Muscas

( Or maybe, “The moving finger writes and having writ……” Once the stuff goes on the net neither your piety nor wit shall lure it back etc. :) )
s/the old Geezer

Patti Cushingberry · 18 February 2005

had to memorize this poem in the 6th grade, and at that time it made absolutely no sense to me!!!

Patpalmer9 · 19 February 2005

I learnt this poem when I was a very young girl, I am now 64 years of age. Over the years I have recited it to my sisters and my sons and daughter. I now want my grandchildren to have the benefit of this wonderful poem, but there was one line I was unsure of. I am so pleased to have found the poem again. Thank you.

GAR75043 · 5 March 2005

In the sixth grade i had to memorize this poem. At the time I thought it a labor to learn. Now after the years, I appreciate having had the assignment. Thank to all of the teachers who give this poem to students to commit to memory………..

Jack Jackson · 13 March 2005

I had never heard the poem thanks for putting it up. I was watching the original “Alfie” with Michael Cane in which he recites the poem up to the line “Love the Lord” I thought it was interesting the way the film used the poem, he doesn’t recite the rest which deals with not being properly thankful for ones blessings which is Alfie in a nutshell. Xego-

Jacob Andoh · 5 April 2005

How beautiful!

Thanks for posting the poem “Abou ben Adhem.” Finding this poem on the net brings back sweet memories. I, too, like many here who have said so, was made to memorize this poem a long time ago, by my teacher in primary school, standard 4 or 5. I am a Ghanaian (from Ghana, West Africa, a former colony of Britain. Ghana achieved political independence in 1957, the first sub-Saharan nation to do so.

Our public schools were, in those days (early to late 60’s), modeled after the British educational system. Memorizing and reciting, upon demand, poems and verses long and short, simple and complex, were an integral and mandatory part of the education we received in those days. Of course, as children, we did not appreciate the beauty of the poems and the importance they have in helping one to develop a masterful command of a foreign language, such as English. (Ghana has many traditional, native languages but English is the official language).

This poem had such a powerful effect on me as a child. When I graduated from Secondary School and “Advanced Level” (in British terms), I temporarily served as a primary school teacher myself. Guess what I did, then? Yes, I made my middle school pupils learn this wonderful poem that I, myself, had been made to learn many years prior.

Of the many, many poems I was made to memorize many, many years ago, I remember, to this day, the
beautiful, mystical, and enchanting “Abou ben Adhem” and others such as the much-loved “Excelsior!” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 1807–1882.

Although my family and I live now in the United States, finding Abou on the net has brought back to me, many beautiful memories of childhood growing up amid the laughter of children walking to school (no school buses then), roads and streets serenaded by mature coconut and palm trees, and our young skins warmly massaged by the tropical sun and lush greens of a beautiful and historic land, washed by the Atlantic Ocean.

Ghana, like many African countries have sizeable populations of people who are Islam and follow the Islamic way of life. “Abou ben Adhem” was as natural to us then as our visions of angels commiserating with Abou.

Sorry that this is a bit long but ………

Thanks for the memories.

Jacob Andoh
Mitchellville, Maryland

Gail Bonnell · 23 April 2005

My father learned this poem as a very young child in Florida. He memorized it word for word, and he never forgot a word of it. He was still reciting it at age 89 prior to his (premature) death. I had his minister read the poem at my father’s memorial service.

Martha Browning · 12 July 2005

Abou Ben Adhem was one of many that I had the privilege of studying and memorizing in my very small hometown in Mississippi. Our high school library was in a 10’ x 10’ room, but our teachers lovingly stretched our minds because they could. I never felt that it was cast upon me as an infliction. Nor did my many fifth graders throughout thirty-three years of teaching, even into this century. Well, maybe a few. But they read, memorized, and wrote some of the loveliest poems. And we developed quite an appreciation for that genre, scholars or no. It is a lovely story and FUN to recite. Powerful meaning.

Martha M . Browning
Lexington, Kentucky

Ed & Paulette Margulies · 11 August 2005

I was tickled by your comments about “Abou ben Adam”. I WAS educated in America and learned this poem in elementary school in the 1940’s. One can’t deny its simple and beautiful message.

Ed Margulies

Margaret Roach · 27 August 2005

How I love this poem! My Mother and I would recite it together when I was ten years old. That was in 1942. I have never forgotten it. It brings back memories of a Mother whose love was rich. constant and unconditional and a message not to be forgotten. Thank you for making it so easy to find here!

RayZoo · 3 November 2005

I first memorized this poem in ninth grade because I had to memorize a poem for AP English class. My mother, the granddaughter of a well loved and respected librarian, knew many, many poems but encouraged me to learn this one. I didn’t, at the time, pay attention to the meaning. Now, as a mother, I can see the prophetic meaning and really look forward to teaching my young daughter this poem.
The love of poetry and reading lives on from generation to generation. What a lovely gift to share.
Heather Ray

Planetvotto · 20 November 2005

I was fascinated by the long list of testimonials honoring this poem. I began looking for it after I took my 8 and 6 yr old kids to see the Merchant of Venice and was recalling another inspirational verse I memorized long ago….”The quality of mercy is not strained…”. My mother loved to read aloud and I treasure Abou Ben Adhem both as something special from my childhood and as an anchor I needed to locate as I search for wings. I have been reading Marcus Borg as he attempts to find The Heart of Christianity. I found a Bartlett’s Familiar Quotations last week at the thrift store and discovered the author, James Leigh Hunt (1784-1859) far more wise and eloquent than I could ever hope to be, writing over 150 years ago.

I find it curious that these comments are being sent electronically via fancy technology, yet the most powerful message in this collection of devoted readers is that this poem must be committed to memory just like tales thousands of years ago.

Gary Cser · 6 December 2005

This poem brought back painful memories for me, because as a third grader in Massachusetts, I actually had to memorize this! -L.C.

gloriborms · 28 December 2005

Re: Abou Ben…#153

Thank you for helping my memory.

Would you be kind enough to give me the title of the book? Obviously I’m not too literate with computers. (I’m a native of Oklahoma lost in SC)

LEON BYNG · 22 January 2006

I was looking at a religious program on TV, and all of a sudden the first few lines of the poem came to my mind. My two teenage girls had just had an argument that I mediated. I immediately looked it up on the web and realized the message for my daughter and printed it out for her to read and enjoy. I, too read it in grade school and was absolutely enthralled with it the day we read it as a class. I’ve never forgotten it. Thanks for posting it!

Leon of Boston, Mass

MFEMFE & MFEMFEMFEMFEMF · 24 January 2006

This poem was printed in our local newspaper following the premature death of my father in 1958. I was young at the time and didn’t fully comprehend the meaning. My father lived his life truly loving his fellow man. This poem speaks volumes about the man he was and the person I have spent my life trying to emulate..

Linda

NathD · 26 January 2006

I googled Abou Ben Adhem with some trepidation. Is NSA looking over my shoulder? They are confused so easily.

Francis McTeigue · 31 January 2006

When I taught school, starting in 1960, forcing, or inflicting the memorization of poetry was considered “old fashioned” and to be avoided. We didn’t teach English but we did have a “language” book. When we got to the section of the book on poetry, I recited from memory this poem. The children were impressed. They clapped. I got the idea of having a poetry festival. The rules were to find a poem, memorize it, and then recite it to the class. Each day afterwards, after lunch, when the kids needed to unwind, someone would recite a poem from memory. It was all voluntary but almost all of the children participated. I didn’t tell the principal nor the Curriculum Coordinator.

Drake Moser · 6 February 2006

Thanks for posting the poem.

I had to remember this poem in 7th grade, 29 years ago.

I forgot many of the works since then and was glad to find them again.

I too, like Ben Adhem, asked the Lord to come in to my life and write me

into His book of life. I repented and now am saved, only with the grace of God.

To all that read these comments, I pray you also, will ask and believe.

Drake

Julia Spicer · 7 February 2006

Question: What is the pronunciation of “Abou”: a boo, a bow, or what. Thanks.

Craig W. Passey · 30 March 2006

Having just read this for the first time in four decades, I realize now that much of my Idaho childhood education took place within the walls of a dimly-lit barn while milking a long row of Holstein cows. The less-than-pleasant aromatic combination of hay, rolled barley, and cow urine was somehow pushed into the background as my father’s passion for poetry (this selection foremost) seared into my heart and mind, a deeper respect for God’s creations. My reverence for what our animals provided for us led to our dedication in providing for them. The poem’s message lived in my father’s example and sacrifices for others. Daily duty to family, community, and farm expressed his convictions. This poem is part of my inheritance-and deeply treasured.

Chris · 9 May 2006

I never learned it in school but found it in an old school book my mother had at home. I have tried to be religious but over the years have become more and more cynical. I definitely love my fellow man and I think that is enough. If There is a God? I should think living a good life, respecting and loving one’s fellow man would be so much better to GOD than being the hypocrite that runs to church and ignores his neighbors tears…..just my thought

MauiRose2 · 14 June 2006

I, too, had to memorize this poem. I was in either the 5th or 6th grade (1950 or 1951). We memorized many, many poems and other pieces of literature. This is one of my favorites. What a pleasure to find so many people enjoying it to this day and speaking about it. I enjoyed reading all the posts. We students in those “golden days of yesteryear” also listened to classical music in school and learned to identify the piece and writer. Remember the finale to the William Tell Overture? Difficult education? At times, yes. Worthwhile education? Absolutely. N.Y.C. public school education? YES. It was a wonderful education

Chellappa Mallika (Mallika) · 22 June 2006

This is a comment on GJGaudia’s comment:

I too was largely educated in Roman Catholic institutions. One thing that strikes me now when I look back is how “Catholic” i.e. universal, was the approach they took. Whereas in one of the protestant schools I was made to learn the Old Testament, in the Catholic schools there were separate Moral Science classes for those who were not roman Catholics.

Mallika

Jackie Simpson · 25 July 2006

I woke up this morning thinking of this poem. So much so that the first thing I did was to go to my laptop and query the internet to find it.. I had a wonderful teacher named Manuel De Leon who taught it to me over fifty years ago, and now I have a need to try to find him. It is a beautiful poem.

Raji Swamy · 27 July 2006

Thanks for giving us this wonderful poem. I had been searching for it for nearly four decades. It is so inspiring Raji Swamy

Bill Baker · 2 August 2006

This poem is the way I want to live. If there is a hereafter may it state my case on the judgement day.

Ann McCormick · 5 August 2006

To the lovely testaments I have here read, “I second that emotion!” I, too, learned it in grade school in Indiana, and it has remained with me all these (about 50) years. Bless the Lord for the educational system we once had.

Don Herzog · 18 August 2006

Must add to your long list of supporters. This was the first poem I was required to memorize in grade school about 65 years ago. The first two lines always remained with me. Don Herzog
American Senior Funding
653 South B Street Suite 100
Tustin, CADirect:

Gettysphantom · 29 September 2006

Dear Sirs:
This poem was taught to me by my beloved late mother whose love for poetry and prose knew no bounds.To us she was angel of light sent here to school us in the ways of life.Did we learn? I find that each of us has a mission and our capacity to learn about life and to love our fellow man is only limited by how obstinate we can be. Human nature? I know not, as some of us are so much more so advanced than others, but this poem needs publishing for it is a well hidden gem that deserves publicity especially in todays world. Well Hidden but a gem nonetheless
reuben febus

diamil · 25 October 2006

I was very pleased to find the poem Abou Ben Adham, on your website. I remember it from a grade school tutor some 46 years ago, but could only recall the first 2 lines.

It is probably not taught in schools today, due to the fact it might “offend” someone. I think it is real shame too ..

Thanks for the poem and the website..

Bev Kaufman · 29 October 2006

I grew up in a very fundamentalist Christian religion, which offered up a long list of groups of people going to hell for not adhering to a specific brand of Christianity. “Abou Ben Adhem” was the first message I got from the outside world telling me that what I already knew in my heart - Ben Adhem’s name led all the rest not because he loved the Lord under a precise and exclusionary set of rules, but because he loved his fellow man, something that can be done in any religion.

Bev Kaufman

An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind.

janet.bruce · 30 October 2006

Thank you for having this poem on your website. I remember this poem from many years ago when as a child (no television) my mother would sit us children around her on the floor and she had a very large book of poems. She read this poem to us with such expression and we loved it!! I never forgot it. Just the other day I was telling my oldest son (now 48 years old) about this poem and decided to see if I could find it. I didn’t know how to reall spell it so I spelled it phonetically and there it was. Thanks again!!

JBB

kathy · 3 November 2006

I am talking to my 78 year old mom and she remembers it a bit different.

Here’s her memory.

On the lines following she remembers these changes.

“And is mine one too?”, asked Abou.

And showed the names of those whom love of God had blessed.

She is reading the magazine, Good Old Days, and saw an article in there. A Flossy Johnson.

Kathy

SK · 6 November 2006

We learned it also in The Montreal Catholic School Commission’s English sector back in the days when memorization was an acknowledged intellectual skill and not derided as ‘rote learning’ by the education experimenters.

I am pleased to share this heritage with so many around the world. Also, too bad it was never translated into French! Cyrano.

Phyllis Dirks · 27 November 2006

I was amazed and charmed to read so many comments on Abou that resonate with my own. The poem, memorized when I was in school, as it was for so many of you, has frequently played through my mind and I have never forgotten it. Its message really speaks to me in that it parallels the Gospel message that tells us what we do for ‘the least’ ones, we are doing unto Christ. I have always hoped it would be counted toward my record!

Phyllis Dirks
Federal Way WA

Gerald · 23 January 2007

We memorized this poem in grammer school. I am 60 now and still remember the words!!!

Gerald

Vijay Kulkarni · 17 February 2007

The meaning of this poem may be self-evident, but from the commentary, it does not appear to be so. To me the meaning of this poem is that

1) If there was a GOD, then (he, she, it) would say that it is better to love your fellow man than love (him, her, it) and 2) if there is no GOD, then there is no alternative than to love your fellow man, if we as a human race are to survive. So the question of GOD becomes mute - simply love your fellow man and the world will be a better place.

Vijay Kulkarni

Jacob High · 21 March 2007

The Abou Ben Adhem poem: This poem is printed in the Knights of Pythias Manual, published in 1887 on page 241. The Knights of Pythias were a group not unsimilar to the Odd Fellows and the Masons.

Charles Hamilton · 1 April 2007

I find it interesting that you say this poem is “uncomplicated by hidden meaning”, particularly given some of the comments here from religious people. Granted, the meaning is not particularly hidden, but certain people seem to have missed it, so it’s worth spelling it out. James Leigh Hunt was a radical liberal and, if not an out-and-out atheist himself, was a great friend of Shelley, who was. This is essentially not a religious poem. Its central message is that non-theistic morality based on compassion is better than piety.

B Sury Bangalore · 2 May 2007

Seriously, I’ve loved this poem even though am not a big fan of ‘the Lord’ kinda stuff. This particular poem is more than just that to me - the teacher was a favorite and somehow the ambience of that particular class was extremely soothing. I still remember every word though it is close to thirty plus years - and yes, am a Wodehouse fan too, and feel very good when it appears in those books.

Deep dream of peace is right :-)

Vidya Sury
Bangalore, India

Tom Schwartz · 7 May 2007

Tom Schwartz
My mother would recite thi poem to me when I was a boy some 60 years ago and it has sttayed with me. I later discovered that it very correctly recites the message in Mathew 25:35 to 40. IN order to love and serve God, You should love and serve your fellow men. I cannot to this day recite this poem without tears of emotion, Perhaps from memory of other and what she taught me.

Robert Lawrence · 21 June 2007

Although it is very poetic, it disturbs me that it takes a Biblical teaching then ignores the clear teaching found within the same book. Salvation comes from repentance and forgiveness from Christ Jesus alone, not from love to your fellow man. God’s standards demand perfection and since nobody will argue that they have reached perfection our hope lies in humility and the finished work of a perfect being on our behalf.

May you all be blessed and find life in calling on Jesus for salvation.

-Robert

Peggy McCleary · 3 July 2007

The sentiments in this poem have influenced me all my life. I learned it in the 6th standard. I was educated in Bombay, and unlike the person who felt that poetry was “inflicted” on him, I feel very blessed to have had such a quality education. I agree that the school system has done away with literary works such as this, and yet as a teacher, I make sure that I expose my students to as much poetry as possible. Whenever I recited this poem the words of 1John 4:20 come into my mind - “If anyone makes the statement: “I love God,” and yet is hating his brother, he is a liar. For he who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot be loving God, whom he has not seen.”

P.M.

Canada

Joel Shoot · 15 July 2007

My late dad used to recite this poem to us..and made it so funny by saying it lightning fast .and full of dramatic effect. this poem says so much for the true purpose of humanity ..it is so uplifting and a tonic to the spirit.

JOEL SHOOT I 422 S.PALM DR.I BEVERLY HILLS CA 90212 I I TELI CELL:

cassel9 · 22 July 2007

Dear GJgaudia
Have you considered that the humanist and God,Yahweh, Allah, Buddah, etc.are all one in the same? Be Well
Cassandra

April Cornell · 18 August 2007

I was looking up the words of Abou Ben Adhem to paint on my walls.

I learned it in school in the 60s in Montreal.

I never forgot it, and often turn the first lines over in my mind knowing that they represent how I too would like to be remembered.

It was no hardship to learn as a child - only a revelation and an inspiration.

April Cornell

McCALLB962 · 31 August 2007

I also had to memorize this poem but forgot the words, but the meaning never left me. My husband of 42 years age 63 just died and I had to see it for comfort </HTML>

SSIRONWIND · 2 September 2007

Exposed to the poem in grammar school, in the 40’s. At the time, racism was rampant, and I had some questions as to why we were expected to learn it at a Catholic school. This is the very reason I remember it now, in a different and favorable light. Perhaps a simple poem can help reduce the tensions that now exist in the world. I hope that somewhere, it’s still being taught. Robert O. ssironwind @ aol.com

Bill · 14 October 2007

I have often wondered about this poem, the first 5 lines of which remained with me since either 5th or 6th grade in Primary School, Kingsgrove 1949-50 and I was delighted to now source it using the Internet. I am now 68.

Bill Walton.

Charles Gunther · 13 November 2007

I too was taught this poem in grade school in Brooklyn, New York. At 62 I remember this poem well. We were told that “May his tribe increase” was extremely important in that any tribes strength and power was increased by numbers. Many tribe members (or Followers) insured the longevity of the tribe. Indeed, though secular, this stands true throughout life. The lessons of life can be learned in many ways. This poem has stood the test of time and has imparted lessons so simple that it appears to be just a simple poem. Simplicity is wonderful in it’s complexity!

Monde Magagula · 21 November 2007

By saying, “May his (Abou Ben’s) tribe increase,” Hunt expresses a wish for the increase in the numbers of people like Abou Ben Adhem. This is a way of blessing his “tribe” for it to be “fruitful and multiply and fill the surface of the earth”, as God commanded Adam and Eve in the book of Genesis when he blessed them to increase. That is what is meant by the “tribe” in this poem. By increasing, Abou Ben’s tribe would make the world a wonderful place filled with love for one another, and subsequently, love for the Lord.

Monde.

Ben Sohawon · 12 December 2007

Hello there,

I was actually named after the fellow in this poem; I grew up, before the days of the “intarweb”, with nothing but an old and yellowed sheet of paper with this wonderful piece of work typed out on it. To my parents, I am ever grateful for choosing something so profound and well-meaning as the inspiration for the name of their first child.

Thank you for putting it up on your website.

Ben Adam Sohawon

pilara · 22 December 2007

I was never forced to learn this poem by memory. I recall I stumbled across it, as a child. I never forgot it. It seemed to memorize itself, on the first reading.

It speaks past all belief systems, all religions, atheism, and it seems to speak something that no one can argue with…..

It surpasses all the ‘differences’ of religions, agnosticism, athiesm, to make some incredible statement ……..although it uses religious symbolism to do so, the message is clear.

To me, this poem, unites us all.

God or no God……..if there is one, what would he wish from us?

If there isn’t a God, isn’t that what we all really hope, deep down, that life is about , anyways?

To me, this poem touches a deep and universal longing…….speaks to all. …atheist, agnostic, religion, we all have one universal need………Each Other.

And this poem seems to bridge a gap, it is the amygdala of all poems ……

Does it matter if there is a god or not?

Don’t’ we all, very deep down……suspect that this is more important than what we believe.

It’s what we know……..in our ‘soul’, if we have one……..

Which isn’t an issue for me, except that if I do have one, this poem has touched it…..

….deeply.

Thanks for putting it up to find.

Elizabeth Worthy · 13 February 2008

After about 40 years, I am re-reading James Michener’s “The Source”, and it is much involved with Arab/Jewish relations. Abou Ben Adham popped into my head this morning, and I, too, found I remembered it almost perfectly after 60 or so years. It is simple and profound. The other poem I remember perfectly from school days is Joyce Kilmer’s “Trees”. Those were days when it wasn’t a crime to mention God in the classroom. EW

Mary Umstead · 26 March 2008

I did not memorize “Abou” in school, but loved and gradually learned its lines from my Grandmother, who read this poem and many others to me frequently during my childhood and teenage years. Her love of poetry was a gift freely given. . . When I was in high school, and my Grandmother’s energy and eyesight were weary and failing from long battling cancer, it was my honor and privilege to read to her to read to her; for although she knew its lines already, “Abou Ben Adhem” remained one of the poems she most enjoyed hearing. - Thank you for posting it here, for bringing back such cherished memories. – mary

William Ringeisen · 24 April 2008

FMR

I,.along with my fifth grade class learned this poem. This was in the l940’s at Perrysville Elem. in Pittsburgh, PA. Our memorable teacher was Miss Wolgamuith (sp.?) She was really an inspiration. I am happy that I have found your site as I have been trying to remember the poem and realized I had forgotten part of it. It was a pleasure to read again and by the fourth line I had tears in my eyes. Yes it is too bad that the quality of education today lacks so much of the quality education we had then.

Blessings