ALEPH The infinite ways to enlightenment

A book that I have read recently and that truly managed to capture my attention was “Aleph” by Paulo Coelho. This novel is based on the experiences of the author himself as he embarks on a spiritual journey through Russia on the Trans-Siberian Railway -- on a quest to find answers to the questions that have plagued civilisation for centuries.
Coelho, upon facing a crisis of faith, sets off on a voyage of self-discovery to seek spiritual enlightenment in order to, once again, become “king of his kingdom.” There, he meets Hilal, a young woman with whom he feels he shared a past life. As the plot unravels, the two become intertwined in a transcendent journey through time.
Going through the “Aleph” or the infinite point where everything in the universe exists in the same place at the same time, the author discovers the origin of his woes and thus, solves the mystery that has continued to torment him in his “present life”.
This book is indeed a wonderful read which would surely captivate the readers from the very beginning. Without even realising it, I embarked on the journey with Coelho and witnessed a fresh perspective on life. It is rather like reading a very personal journal entry which gives the reader an insight to the thoughts, emotions, qualms and fantasies of the author. The characters in the book possess qualities that readers can relate to. Coelho, being a man of doubt, believes that the monotone of daily life is what inhibited his spiritual growth whereas Hilal is the naive yet tenacious young woman who brings life to the book. It is a very thought-provoking read which raised many questions in my mind and compelled me to reassess my understanding of the universe.
Even though I am not particularly convinced about the concept of reincarnation, the wonderful thing about this book is that it only aims to make the reader consider the numerous possibilities of life. The story centres on an intriguing and fascinating concept which enthrals the readers until the very end. Coelho engages the reader with his effortless yet powerful words. It is an enchanting story of self-healing, of the divine philosophy of living, of love and of forgiveness being the path to salvation.
This is definitely an impressive read, particularly for those who have a fondness for the whimsical theories of life. So if you're looking for something new and refreshing to read, make sure your next pick is “Aleph.” It will inspire you, just as it has inspired me.