All tales / Tale 5
Deli Dumrul, Son of Duha Koca
A young man who challenges the Angel of Death, his search for someone to give a life for his, and the love that changes everything.
The story
Dumrul, son of Duha Koca, has a bridge built over a dry riverbed. He takes thirty-three coins from those who cross and beats forty out of those who don't. Why? To boast that no one is madder or stronger than he is.
One day a young warrior dies in the camp by the bridge. Dumrul is outraged that Azrail, the Angel of Death, takes lives, and he challenges him. When Azrail appears at his door, Dumrul's blood runs cold. He draws his sword, but Azrail turns into a dove and flies away. Dumrul gives chase, falls from his horse, and finds Azrail sitting on his chest.
For the first time Dumrul prays from the heart. God lets him know that he may live if he finds someone to give a life in place of his. Dumrul goes to his father, then to his mother. Both love him, but neither will give up their life.
The last door is his wife's. She gives her life without a second thought. This time Dumrul prays not for himself but for both of them: take us together or spare us together. The prayer is answered, and the bridge is open to everyone, free of charge.
What this tale is about
Characters
Deli Dumrul
A young man who boasts of his strength and learns that true strength is in giving.
Azrail
The red-winged Angel of Death, who humbles pride and teaches a lesson.
Duha Koca
Dumrul's father, who loves his son but cannot give up his own life.
Dumrul's mother
She weeps for her son, but she cannot give her life either.
Dumrul's wife
The one who changes the story, showing her love not with words but with her life.
Scenes
Original illustrations from the 19-page telling in the app. Tap to enlarge.
Listen to this tale
Deli Dumrul, Son of Duha Koca
A young man who challenges the Angel of Death, his search for someone to give a life for his, and the love that changes everything.
To talk about as a family
Strength lies in giving, not taking; true love shows itself in hard times.
Live it in the app
In Live mode you are Deli Dumrul. Your choices change the story, and there are five endings in this tale:
