Symbolism In The Kite Runner

Afghanistan’s culture is symbolized throughout Khaled Hosseini’s “Kite Runner”. Beginning with Religion in Afghanistan, Islam is the major religion in Afghan communities. This included Amir and Hassan although they were apart of different sects within Islam. Islam was founded by Muhammad on the basis of revelation from God. There are 5 pillars within islam, starting with Faith, Charity, Prayer, Fasting, and making a pilgrimage to Mecca. Muslims in Afghanistan also commit to five daily prayers and a friday congregation at mosques across the cities and towns. There are two major sects within Islam that are very concentrated in Afghan communities, Sunni (Majority) and Shi’a (Minority). Religion is connected to the text in various forms and symbols throughout “Kite

Amir is a Sunni and Hassan is a Shi’a, which causes Hassan to be treated as less than Amir. Amir exclaims within the book“ I was a Pashtun and He was a Hazara, I was Sunni and he was Shi’a, and nothing was ever going to change that” (27). This statement by Amir further shows the innate barrier between their friendship and loyalty. Later in the book Amir seeks redemption for his past and prays to God saying, “ Amir Kneels down to pray to Allah, Promising he’ll fast and pray and make pilgrimage if only God will save Sohrab”. Amir returns to Religion in his attempt at redemption, although Baba gave him a negative view of Religion. Afghan culture was not only on the teachings of religion but also had many activities of non-religious views. Kite Running is a 100 year old tradition in Afghan culture. It’s viewed as competitive yet considered fine work. Kite Running is also a major component of most Afghan children’s childhood. Afghan Muslim communities also take part in two major festivals throughout each year. The first is Eid-Al-Adha which is a commemoration of the trails of Abraham and his sacrificing of his