Rest Before the Journey (Homer’s The Odyssey, Book VII – Part 11)

A vow is answered with hope, and the long night of wandering finally gives way to rest. Words spoken in trust are met with shelter and calm.

In this passage from The Odyssey, Book VII, Odysseus rejoices at King Alcinous’ promise and offers a prayer to Zeus that it be fulfilled. Arete orders the beds prepared, and the household attends to the stranger with care. At last, Odysseus lies down to sleep beneath the palace gallery, while Alcinous and his queen retire within.

This quiet closing seals the pact of hospitality, granting Odysseus what he has lacked for so long: peace before the road home.

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