In my religious studies class, we were required to read the novel, The Saddlebag , written by renowned author Bahiyyah Nakjavani. This novel takes places on a pilgrimage route between the two holy cities of Mecca and Medina. The Saddlebag describes a saddlebag that mysteriously appears on the pathway and transforms and radically changes the lives of all who come in contact with it. A caravan stumbles upon the saddlebag and begins to discover its powers. The saddlebag teaches the members of the caravan about the true meaning of life.
This novel is packed with symbolism and ultimately draws the reader back to the idea of religion. Although the members of the caravan had little in common, the saddlebag brought them together as a group, much like religion unites people who have nothing in common. This novel is a prime example of how one small thing can bring together so many different people, from different backgrounds, and different religions, working toward a common goal. Although this is a fictional novel, the practices and basic plot line can be introduced into real life situations when attempting to unite a group of people toward a common goal.
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