Pic of the Haji Ali Mosque thanks to Johnnylubber!


During their first meeting not far from the Haji Ali Mosque, Lin thinks his conversation with Khaderbhai is a test. And he seems to willingly be tested!

Khaderbhai says to Lin, "Nothing exists as we see it. Nothing we see is really there, as we think we are seeing it. Our eyes are liars. Everything that seems real, is merely part of the illusion. Nothing exists, as we think it does. Not me. Not this room. Nothing."

What do you think Khaderbhai was telling Lin? Was he warning him? Or was he advising him? Or just testing him to see what his response would be? Or something else?

khaderbhai speaks in riddles, doesn't he?

I don't think Khader is singling out Lin in this. I think it's how he dispenses his wisdom and yes, tests the people he feels have some potential to serve his ends.

I think he had been aware of Lin beforehand and was testing him, to see if he was a good candidate for his organisation.

I think Khan thinks of himself and projects himself as a benevolent force of nature. He sees no evil in his crimes. His charisma pulls you in almost against your better judgement.

I don't know about a test, but his penchant for talking metaphysics is what delighted me about Khader! He seemed so wise! Who could resist being drawn into his philosophical discussions? (I hope they keep that scene in - the gathering of all the mafia dons, sitting around smoking and having their say on whatever topic it was!) Khaderbhai came across as being charismatic, patient, and really rather kind, considering the line of work he was in. :unsure: Perhaps he was testing Lin to see if he could follow the conversation and 'get' it, proving he was capable of abstract thinking as well as having an instinct for survival. Maybe he was as intrigued by the gora as the other way around. In any case, he was intent on using Lin for his own ends, although he made Lin feel it was more personal than that. He allowed Lin to feel that he was being adopted, flaws and all, by the older, wiser, more powerful man.

:thumbsup Couldn't say it better myself.

Excellent comments! I also think that Khaderbai respected the fact that Lin spoke his mind at times and challenged Khader's statements. Lin wasn't the typical "yes" man all the time which showed Khader that Lin was intelligent, strong and had his own views.