Seventh and Last Voyage

Sindbad, having vowed to end his seafaring days, is unexpectedly summoned by the Caliph to deliver a diplomatic gift to the King of Serendib. Despite his desire for peace, he obeys the command and travels safely to the distant kingdom. The King receives the presents warmly, but delays Sindbad's departure, keeping him in royal favor for some time. Eventually allowed to leave, Sindbad boards a ship that sails smoothly for several days before disaster strikes. Pirates attack the vessel, killing many passengers and enslaving the survivors, including Sindbad. He is sold to a rich merchant who forces him into a dangerous new trade: hunting elephants in a vast forest. Each day, Sindbad hides in trees to shoot the beasts, successfully killing one and burying it for its tusks. This routine continues for two months until the herd discovers his hiding spot. The largest elephant uproots the tree, picks up Sindbad, and carries him away from the merchant’s control. Instead of eating him, the gentle giant places Sindbad on its back and leads him to a secret valley filled with ivory bones. Realizing this is an elephant graveyard where they leave their dead, Sindbad understands their wisdom in protecting their kind. He escapes the herd by running back to the city, surprising his master who feared he was dead. The merchant, grateful for the discovery of the ivory source and Sindbad's survival, grants him his freedom and a fortune. Sindbad loads his ships with precious goods and returns home via caravan, avoiding further sea dangers. Back in Bagdad, he reports to the Caliph, whose story is recorded in gold letters for posterity. Finally at peace, Sindbad shares his wealth with his friend Hindbad, urging him to value wisdom over idleness.