The role of religion is an important aspect of all peoples lives within the two books. Although both books make reference to Western perceptions of God, there is a nuance of Ancient figures. Regardless of which "God" each character lives under, the role of God in each characters life varies. For example, Zorba looks to God but still holds his own beliefs and does not let God rule his life. On the other hand, Kino follows Gods will and attributes lifes events to God and higher powers. Moreover, conceptions of good and evil for Kino are based on religious rituals and traditions. Zorba retains his won beliefs based on experience. In the beginning of The Pearl, Kino shows belief in both Ancient gods and a Christian God. "You must want it just enough and you must be very tactful with God or gods."(18) Although Kino does not identify with a specific God, he still recognizes that higher powers play a central part in his life. Traditionally God would determine not only events in a persons life but what is good and bad. For Kino, any good things that happen in Kino's life is a result of Gods will and His understanding of good and bad. In contrast, Zorba does not view conceptions of good and evil based on religion. Instead through many life experiences, Zorba has come to determine what is good and evil based oh his own opinions. He does not follow exactly what God says is good or evil on the earth. Zorba states:.
"There was a time when I used to say: that man's a Turk, or a Bulgar, or a Greek. .
I've done things for my country that would make your hair stand on end, boss. .
I say to myself sometimes. "To hell with you right away, you ass." Nowadays I say .
this man is a good fellow, that one's a bastard. They can be Greeks or Bulgars .
or Turks, it doesn't matter."(229).
As outlined, religion is a prominent part of each mans life. While Kino's externel events and perceptions of good and evil are rooted to God.