Alqash

Alqash or Malik Alqash is a fictitious character in the Persian epic The Adventures of Amir Hamza (Hamzanama).

He was described as the Grand Minister of Qubad Kamran and an expert in astrology. In the Dastan Alqash was among the 40 Ministers of Qubad Kamran yet he was superior to all of them and held the position of Grand Vizier in the King's court. He was very wise and Qubad Kamran usually consulted him on issues of government.

Alqash heard the fame of Khawaja Bakht Jamal so he visited him and tested him for his knowledge of astrology. He was surprised when Khawaja Bakht Jamal told him some issues only Alqash knew himself. He was deeply impressed by Khawaja's knowledge and became his pupil. Khawaja Bakht Jamal taught Alqash all aspects of astrology during this period, and they got close to each other became good friends.

One day Alqash with the help of astrology calculated that the coming 40 days were going to be very hard upon his friend and teacher Khawaja Bakht Jamal and if he stepped out of his house within these 40 days his life would be in danger. He was frightened and told all his calculations to Khawaja Bakht Jamal. Khawaja confirmed Alqash's calculations after he did his own star's calculations. Alqash warned Khawaja Bakht Jamal and asked him not to leave his house for 40 days.

On the 40th day he was surprised to see Khawaja Bakht Jamal at his door. He welcomed him warmly and asked him why he was out of his house before the 40th day. Khawaja Bakht Jamal told him that while he was on the way to his house he had discovered a magnificent treasure in some ruins.

Alqash was overjoyed to hear about the treasure. Without wasting time he ordered two horses to be saddled. He took Khawaja along with him and set out for the treasure. Alqash was shocked to see that huge treasure and he thought that only Khawaja knows the secret What if I kill him right here and become the only claimant of this mighty treasure?