Majeed is a character full of hypocrisy in “Tree Without Roots” (1948) by Syed Waliullah (1922-1971). He uses the mystery of the mazar as a tool to control the ignorant villagers. His cleverness reaches its height when he arranges a false test for Amena. Through this test, he manipulates both Amena and Khaleque to protect his power and punish those who challenge his authority.

Majeed’s Anger and Jealousy: Majeed becomes furious when he hears that Amena has gone to another pir in Nawabpur for help. He feels insulted because it questions the holiness of his mazar. His pride and jealousy push him to take revenge. He convinces Khaleque that Amena’s childlessness is caused by “evil coils” in her belly. This false idea makes Khaleque fearful and dependent on Majeed for a solution. Majeed’s jealousy and desire for control lead him to plan a fake spiritual test.

Creating the False Test: Majeed invents a ritual that looks holy but is built on deceit. He tells Khaleque that Amena must fast for a whole day, stay silent, and read the Koran without rest. He says she must come to the mazar in the evening. Through this test, he uses religion as a tool for manipulation and revenge.

Use of the Mazar’s Mystery: Majeed connects the test directly with the mazar to strengthen his false authority. He gives Amena “blessed water” to break her fast and declares that her success or failure depends on the saint’s will. He knows that a tired and hungry woman will fail. When Amena breaks the rule, Majeed uses it as proof of her impurity. He then convinces Khaleque to divorce her. In this way, the mazar becomes a weapon of injustice.

Through the test of Amena, Majeed turns the sacred idea of the mazar into a means of deceit. He uses its mystery to control minds and destroy innocence.