Karim Abu Simbel Character Analysis in The Satanic Verses

Abu Simbel is a wealthy and powerful leader in the city of Jahilia, a fictionalized version of pre-Islamic Mecca. He is depicted as the head of the ruling Quraysh tribe and is a key opponent of the prophet Mahound. Abu Simbel’s role is central to the “satanic verses” episode, where he pressures Mahound to compromise his monotheistic message by allowing the worship of three local goddesses—Al-Lat, Manat, and Uzza—in order to maintain social and economic stability in Jahilia.

Karim Abu Simbel Character Timeline in The Satanic Verses

The timeline below shows where the character Karim Abu Simbel appears in The Satanic Verses. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.

Meanwhile, Karim Abu Simbel , a wealthy and powerful man, walks through the streets of Jahilia during the feast... (full context)

As he moves through the festival, Abu Simbel encounters a young, arrogant poet named Baal. Baal, notorious in Jahilia for his sharp tongue... (full context)

Racial Prejudice and Xenophobia Theme Icon

Afterward, Abu Simbel relaxes in his palace with his many concubines, contemplating Mahound’s growing influence. Although he cares... (full context)

While Baal writes his poem, Mahound grapples with a critical decision. Abu Simbel approaches him with an offer: if Mahound agrees to incorporate the three local goddesses—Lat, Uzza,... (full context)

...participant in Mahound’s inner conflict. Mahound, desperate for clarity, asks Gibreel whether he should accept Abu Simbel ’s offer. He voices his concerns about the impact this decision will have on his... (full context)

...by the deception, Mahound decides to strike the “Satanic verses” from his teachings and reject Abu Simbel ’s offer. (full context)

...from its lifeblood of pilgrims and caravans, struggles to survive. The Grandee of Jahilia ( Abu Simbel ), once powerful, has grown old and feeble, while his wife Hind, rumored to be... (full context)