Summary:
Simoun discreetly yet nonchalantly places the lamp at the center of the house where the guests are gathered. Basilio watches him from a distance. As the youth is about to leave the place, he sees Isagani and tries to convince his friend to leave. Basilio tells him to get as far away from the house as possible, and explains that there is about to be an explosion any minute that would kill all the guests and everyone within a considerable distance. Isagani, in a rare act of love and loyalty to his beloved Paulita, quickly rushes to the house and throws the lamp into the river below, stopping the explosion.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Question: What does “Mane Thacel Phares” mean?
Answer: Just like the title, “Noli Me Tangere,” this is taken from the Bible (Daniel 5:25-28). In these verses, King Belshazzar of Babylon holds a vulgar feast. While the guests indulge themselves in indecent and salacious activities, a hand then writes majestically on the wall: “Mane, Mane, Thacel, Upharsin,” a warning that means, “The Almighty God has marked Babylon, and the days of this city are numbered.” Not long after, Babylon is overcome by another kingdom and divided between Mane and Persia.
Question: Why is it that Padre Salvi alone is able to recognize Ibarra’s signature?
Answer: He is the only one who has seen Ibarra’s signature – in the letter written by the youth to Maria Clara, which the lady had given to the friar in exchange for the three letters her mother had written to Padre Damaso.
Question: Why doesn’t the lamp explode?
Answer: The crank intended to set the fuse isn’t set. This is supposed to set off the explosion.
Question: How does Isagani enter the house without question?
Answer: Isagani is decently and elegantly dressed. The guards think he is one of the guests invited to the wedding feast.