The Role of Faith and Prayer

Traces how the characters use Islam and prayer as a source of comfort, guidance, and resilience.

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Mullah Faizullah's Teachings

The Koran as Comfort Lessons in the Kolba Mullah Faizullah teaches Mariam to read the Koran. He tells her that God's words will never betray her. She learns the verses by heart. The Power of Faith Mariam finds solace in prayer. When she is sad, she recites the Koran. Faith is her anchor. A Gentle Guide Mullah Faizullah is kind and patient. He is the only male figure who treats Mariam with respect. He tries to intercede for her education, but Nana refuses.

Mariam's Prayers in Suffering

Clinging to God After Miscarriages Mariam prays for forgiveness. She believes God is testing her. She recites verses from the Koran to find meaning in her loss. The Burial of the Coat Mariam buries the baby's suede coat in the yard and says a prayer. She asks God for sustenance. Prayer is her only outlet. Final Moments Before her execution, Mariam mutters verses from the Koran. She finds peace in surrendering to God's will. Faith sustain her until the end.

Aziza's Devotion

Passing on the Faith Mariam's Legacy Aziza prays five times a day, as taught by Mariam. The prayers are a way to keep Mariam close. Laila sees Mariam in Aziza's devotion. The Babaloo Ritual Zalmai and Laila say the Babaloo prayers together. The nightly ritual brings comfort. It is a tradition that connects them to Rasheed and to Mariam. Faith Amid Destruction In the orphanage, Zaman teaches the children to pray. Faith is a source of hope in a desperate world. It is one of the few things that cannot be taken away.

1960s, Mariam's childhood

1974-2001, during her marriage

2001-2003, after Mariam's death