Compare Rahima with Jamila in “Tree Without Roots.”

Answer

Compare Rahima with Jamila. Point out the signs of change Rahima shows as we come toward the end of “Tree Without Roots.” [2016] 

Syed Waliullah’s (1922-1971) “Tree Without Roots” (1948) illustrates how women live under the constraints of religion and male control. Rahima and Jamila are two starkly different representations of womanhood. Through them, Waliullah studies fear, faith, and freedom. Rahima accepts her fate and hides her pain. Jamila questions it and breaks the silence. Both women reflect the social world of Mahabbatpur, where faith influences every aspect of life. 

Rahima’s Fear and Faith: Rahima, Majeed’s first wife, is a large and strong woman, yet childless. She came to Majeed after being a widow. Her life is filled with faith, fear, and quiet service. She accepts Majeed’s authority without protest. She believes that his power comes from the mazar. Her heart is full of kindness, and she prays for others. As the quote says, 

“It was Rahima… advocate of the village women before the divine will.” 

She listens to women’s troubles and speaks to Majeed on their behalf. She represents the ordinary woman who suffers silently but keeps her faith alive.

Rahima’s Silence and Submission: Rahima’s silence shows her helplessness in a world ruled by men. She cannot express anger or resistance. Her fear grows from Majeed’s harsh control and her belief that defying him is a sin. Majeed often uses religion to maintain his power, saying, .

“It is well that a man should know it when he sins… ignorance is the greatest sin of all.” 

Rahima accepts such words as truth and never questions them. She lives under the shadow of both faith and fear. She believes that her pain is part of divine will. 

Jamila’s Rebellion and Courage: Jamila, Majeed’s second wife, is young, fearless, and full of energy. At first, she appears shy, but her true nature soon emerges. She laughs openly and refuses to obey Majeed’s commands. She challenges his authority and mocks his false