Overview

In the Seventeenth Discourse of Farid al-Din Attar's Elahi Nameh, the son argues for the supreme desirability of kingship (mulk). He asserts that political and worldly power is sought after by everyone, regardless of their spiritual or intellectual stature.

Key Themes

• The Desirability of Power: The son claims that kingship is universally coveted (maṭlūb), serving as an ultimate goal for both the good and the bad.
• Dependency on the Sovereign: He argues that even great sages, wise men, and ordinary people (whether composed or distressed) are never free from the court of kings, continuously seeking strength and support from them.