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All questions of Theme 6 - Bhakti-Sufi traditions for Humanities/Arts Exam

In puri, Orissa, a local deity, was recognized as a form of what?
  • a)
    Shiva
  • b)
    Vishnu
  • c)
    Krishna
  • d)
    Rama
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Recognition of Local Deity in Puri, Orissa as a Form of Vishnu

Background: Puri is a city located in the eastern state of Orissa in India. It is known for its famous Jagannath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of the Hindu God Vishnu. However, in addition to Lord Jagannath, there are also other deities that are worshipped in Puri.

Local Deity Recognized: One such deity is called Alarnath, who is worshipped as a form of Vishnu. According to legend, Alarnath was a hunter who had a vision of Vishnu while he was hunting. Vishnu appeared to him in the form of a deity and asked him to stop hunting. From that day on, Alarnath became a devotee of Vishnu and built a temple in his honor.

Significance: The Alarnath Temple is located in the Brahmagiri area of Puri and is considered to be a very sacred site for Vishnu devotees. It is believed that worshipping Alarnath can bring blessings and fulfillment of wishes. The temple is especially busy during the month of Ashadha (June-July) when devotees come to offer prayers and seek blessings. The festival of Alarnath Yatra is also celebrated during this time, which attracts thousands of pilgrims.

Conclusion: The recognition of Alarnath as a form of Vishnu is significant because it shows the diversity of Hinduism and the different forms in which deities are worshipped. It also highlights the importance of local traditions and beliefs in shaping religious practices.
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What language did Arab Muslim traders adopt?
  • a)
    Tamil
  • b)
    Malayalam
  • c)
    Kannada
  • d)
    Telugu
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Language adopted by Arab Muslim traders

Introduction: Arab Muslim traders were the first to trade with India and they had a significant impact on India's culture and economy. They brought with them their language, religion, and customs. However, they also adopted the local languages for communication purposes.

Language adopted: Arab Muslim traders adopted the Malayalam language for communication purposes. Malayalam is a language spoken in the South Indian state of Kerala. It is one of the 22 official languages of India and is spoken by around 38 million people worldwide.

Reasons for adopting Malayalam: Arab Muslim traders adopted Malayalam because of the following reasons:

1. Easy communication: Malayalam was the language spoken by the locals in Kerala. The Arab traders found it easier to communicate with the locals in their own language rather than using Arabic.

2. Trade: The Arab traders were primarily involved in the spice trade with Kerala. They needed to communicate with the locals for the trade to flourish.

3. Integration: The Arab traders wanted to integrate with the local community. They adopted the local language to show their respect towards the locals.

4. Spread of Islam: The Arab traders also spread Islam in Kerala. They used Malayalam to communicate the teachings of Islam to the locals.

Impact of Arab traders: The Arab traders had a significant impact on Kerala's culture and economy. They introduced the Islamic religion, Arabic language, and customs to the state. They also brought with them new spices and other products that were not available in Kerala. The spice trade with the Arabs helped Kerala become a major trading center in South India.

Conclusion: In conclusion, Arab Muslim traders adopted the Malayalam language for communication purposes in Kerala. Their adoption of the local language helped in the integration of Arab traders with the local community. It also had a significant impact on Kerala's culture and economy.

Whose compositions were widely sung?
  • a)
    Vana Bhatta
  • b)
    Andal
  • c)
    Vishnu
  • d)
    Alvar
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Kritika Saha answered
Andal, also known as Kodhai or Goda, was a 9th-century Tamil poet and one of the twelve Alvars, a group of Vaishnava saints who were devoted to the worship of Lord Vishnu. Her compositions were widely sung and continue to be popular among devotees of Lord Vishnu.

Andal's Compositions

Andal composed two works, Tiruppavai and Nachiyar Tirumozhi, which are considered to be among the finest works of Tamil literature.

Tiruppavai is a collection of thirty hymns that were composed by Andal in the month of Margazhi (December-January), which is considered to be a sacred month for Vaishnavas. The hymns are addressed to Lord Vishnu and describe the various rituals and practices that are performed by the Gopis (cowherd girls) of Vrindavan to attain the love and grace of Lord Krishna. Tiruppavai is sung during the month of Margazhi as a part of the daily worship of Lord Vishnu.

Nachiyar Tirumozhi is a collection of 143 verses that were composed by Andal in the style of a love poem. The verses describe Andal's longing and devotion for Lord Vishnu and her desire to be united with him. Nachiyar Tirumozhi is considered to be a masterpiece of Tamil literature and is sung by devotees of Lord Vishnu as a part of their daily worship.

Legacy

Andal's compositions have had a significant impact on Tamil literature and culture. Her works are widely sung and continue to inspire devotees of Lord Vishnu. Andal's devotion and love for Lord Vishnu have also made her an important figure in the Bhakti movement of South India.

In conclusion, Andal's compositions were widely sung and continue to be popular among devotees of Lord Vishnu. Her works have had a significant impact on Tamil literature and culture and have made her an important figure in the Bhakti movement of South India.

The pilgrims’ spirited singing bound for what city-inspired Akbar to visit the tomb?
  • a)
    Bikaner
  • b)
    Ajmer
  • c)
    Jaipur
  • d)
    Rajasthan
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Athul Chawla answered
The Pilgrims were a group of English Separatists who fled England in the early 17th century to escape religious persecution. They sailed on the Mayflower to the New World, landing in what is now Massachusetts in 1620. The Pilgrims established the Plymouth Colony, which became one of the first successful English colonies in North America. They are celebrated in the United States on Thanksgiving Day for their role in the founding of the country and for their perseverance in the face of adversity.

The ‘Nalayira Divyaprabandham’ of the Alvars was compared with the
  • a)
    Four Vedas.
  • b)
    Manusmiriti.
  • c)
    Mahabharata.
  • d)
    Ramayana.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Jaideep Mehta answered
Nalayira Divyaprabandham was composed in the tenth century AD. Its acceptance as Tamil Veda shows the influence of Alvars and Nayanars in South Indian society. This anthology is said to be composed by 12 Alvars.

Shaikh Nizamuddin’s hospice comprised several small rooms and a big hall known as
  • a)
    jama’at khana.
  • b)
    langar.
  • c)
    qalandars.
  • d)
    ziyarat.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

The khanqah was the centre of social life for the Sufis. Shaikh Nizamuddin’s hospice, during the fourteenth century, was located on the banks of the river Yamuna in Ghiyaspur, on the outskirts of what was then the city of Delhi.

In what year did Muhammad Qasim conquer Sind?
  • a)
    719
  • b)
    711
  • c)
    707
  • d)
    715
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Ruchi Joshi answered
Year of Conquest of Sind by Muhammad Qasim

The correct answer is option B, which is 711.

Explanation

Muhammad bin Qasim was a young Arab general who was sent by the Umayyad caliphate to conquer the Sindh region in present-day Pakistan. He was the first Muslim conqueror of the Indian subcontinent. He began his campaign in 711 CE and conquered the region within two years.

Significance of the Conquest

The conquest of Sindh was significant for several reasons:

- It established a Muslim presence in the Indian subcontinent, which would have a lasting impact on the region's history and culture.
- It expanded the Umayyad caliphate's territory and influence, giving them access to the resources and trade routes of the Indian Ocean.
- It paved the way for future Muslim conquests and migrations into the subcontinent, which would shape its political and social landscape for centuries to come.

In conclusion, the year of Muhammad Qasim's conquest of Sind was 711 CE. This event had significant historical and cultural implications for the Indian subcontinent and the wider Islamic world.

What is our understanding of the Vira Shaiva tradition derived from?
  • a)
    Shiva
  • b)
    Dharmashastras
  • c)
    Vachanas
  • d)
    Lingayats
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Understanding of Vira Shaiva Tradition from Vachanas:

Vira Shaivism is a Shaivite movement that originated in the Karnataka region of India in the 12th century. It is also known as the Lingayat religion. The Vira Shaiva tradition is derived from the Vachanas, a collection of devotional poems composed in the Kannada language by the saints and poets of the Lingayat community.

Vachanas as a Source of Knowledge:

The Vachanas are considered as a primary source of knowledge about the Vira Shaiva tradition. These poems were composed by the Vira Shaiva saints and poets such as Basavanna, Akka Mahadevi, Allama Prabhu, and others. These poems are written in simple Kannada language and are easily understood by the common people.

Teachings of Vachanas:

The Vachanas teach the concept of monotheism, where God is seen as one and is accessible to everyone. The Vira Shaiva tradition believes in the equality of all human beings, irrespective of their caste, gender, or social status. The Vachanas also emphasize the importance of self-realization and the need for individuals to seek God within themselves.

The Vachanas also criticize the prevailing social and religious practices of their time, such as the caste system, the worship of idols, and the ritualistic practices of Hinduism. They promote social equality, gender equality, and the abolition of untouchability.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Vira Shaiva tradition is derived from the Vachanas, a collection of devotional poems composed by the saints and poets of the Lingayat community. The Vachanas teach the concept of monotheism, emphasize the importance of self-realization, and promote social and gender equality. Therefore, the Vachanas are an important source of knowledge for understanding the Vira Shaiva tradition.

Who was a devotee of shiva?
  • a)
    Andal
  • b)
    Shiva
  • c)
    Karaikkal Ammaiyar
  • d)
    Alvar
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Dhruba Malik answered
Devotee of Shiva - Karaikkal Ammaiyar

Karaikkal Ammaiyar, also known as Karaikkal Amma or Punithavati, was a great devotee of Lord Shiva. She was a prominent female saint and poetess who lived during the 6th century CE in the region of present-day Tamil Nadu, India. Her devotion and intense love for Lord Shiva are well-known and revered in Tamil literature and religious traditions.

Life and Devotion
Karaikkal Ammaiyar was born into a wealthy merchant family and was married at a young age. However, she had an intense desire to renounce worldly life and dedicate herself completely to the worship of Lord Shiva. Despite societal norms and expectations, she left her family and embarked on a spiritual journey.

She wandered as a mendicant, living a life of renunciation and austerity. Karaikkal Ammaiyar devoted herself entirely to the worship of Lord Shiva, often engaging in extreme practices to demonstrate her unwavering devotion. She would wear a garland made of her own hair, smear ash on her body, and engage in vigorous penance.

Works and Contributions
Karaikkal Ammaiyar composed several devotional hymns, known as "Tevaram," in praise of Lord Shiva. Her poems expressed her deep love, devotion, and longing for union with the divine. These hymns were written in Tamil, the vernacular language of the region, making them accessible to the common people.

Her poetry is characterized by its emotional intensity, vivid imagery, and powerful expression of spiritual experiences. Karaikkal Ammaiyar's verses beautifully depict her longing to merge with Lord Shiva and her profound experiences of his divine presence.

Legacy and Significance
Karaikkal Ammaiyar's devotion to Lord Shiva and her poetic contributions have had a lasting impact on Tamil literature and religious traditions. Her hymns are still sung and revered in Shiva temples, particularly in the Tamil-speaking regions of South India.

She is considered a role model for women and a symbol of unwavering devotion. Karaikkal Ammaiyar's life and poetry continue to inspire devotees to this day, reminding them of the power of love and surrender in the path of spirituality.

In conclusion, Karaikkal Ammaiyar was a devoted and influential female saint who dedicated her life to the worship of Lord Shiva. Her profound love for the divine and her poetic contributions have left an indelible mark on Tamil literature and religious traditions.

Assertion (A): The khanqah serves as a community hub for disciples under the guidance of a shaikh.
Reason (R): The khanqah operates independently of any spiritual lineage or established rules of conduct.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • c)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

- The Assertion is true as khanqahs are indeed centers for community and spiritual guidance under a shaikh.
- The Reason is false because khanqahs are deeply rooted in spiritual traditions and practices, including established rules of conduct.
- Therefore, while both the Assertion and Reason are true, the Reason does not correctly explain the Assertion. The khanqah's role as a community hub is influenced by its structure and traditions, which are not independent.

The poets’ opposition to Buddhism and Jainism is particularly marked in what of the Nayanars?
  • a)
    Formulations
  • b)
    Compositions
  • c)
    Applications
  • d)
    Composed
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Charvi Sharma answered
The correct answer is option 'B' - Compositions.

The Nayanars were a group of poet-saints from South India who lived between the 5th and 10th centuries CE. They were devotees of Lord Shiva and composed devotional hymns known as Tevaram in Tamil. These hymns express their deep love and devotion for Lord Shiva and also reflect their strong opposition to Buddhism and Jainism.

The Nayanars' opposition to Buddhism and Jainism is particularly evident in their compositions, which serve as a means of expressing their thoughts and beliefs. Here's an explanation of why the correct answer is 'B' - Compositions:

1. Context of the Nayanars:
The Nayanars lived during a time when Buddhism and Jainism were prominent religions in South India. These religions had gained significant influence and were seen as a challenge to the existing Vedic and Brahmanical traditions.

2. Poetic Expression:
The Nayanars used their compositions as a medium to express their thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. Their hymns were not only a form of artistic expression but also a way to propagate their religious ideology.

3. Opposition to Buddhism and Jainism:
In their compositions, the Nayanars expressed their strong opposition to Buddhism and Jainism. They criticized the beliefs and practices of these religions, often contrasting them with the glory and supremacy of Lord Shiva.

4. Exposing the "False Paths":
The Nayanars saw Buddhism and Jainism as "false paths" that deviated from the true path of devotion to Lord Shiva. Through their compositions, they aimed to expose what they perceived as the shortcomings and limitations of these religions.

5. Promoting Shaivism:
The Nayanars used their compositions to promote Shaivism, a sect of Hinduism that worships Lord Shiva as the supreme deity. They praised the greatness and power of Lord Shiva, emphasizing his role as the ultimate source of salvation and liberation.

In conclusion, the Nayanars' opposition to Buddhism and Jainism is particularly evident in their compositions. Through their hymns, they expressed their strong criticism of these religions and promoted the worship of Lord Shiva.

What do Lingayats worship?
  • a)
    Ganesh
  • b)
    Vishnu
  • c)
    Shiva
  • d)
    Shakti
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Nisha Sengupta answered
Lingayats, also known as Veerashaivas, are a religious community in India who follow the teachings of the 12th-century philosopher and social reformer, Basavanna. They consider themselves as a separate religious group within Hinduism, with their own distinct beliefs and practices. Lingayats worship Lord Shiva as their primary deity.

Shiva Worship:
Lingayats believe in monotheism, with Lord Shiva as the supreme deity. They emphasize the worship of Shiva in his formless, all-pervasive aspect called "Linga." The Linga is a symbolic representation of the divine energy and is often represented as a cylindrical stone or a lingam. Lingayats believe that the Linga represents the formless and eternal nature of God.

Importance of Guru:
Lingayats place great importance on the role of a spiritual leader or guru in their religious practice. They believe that the guru is a direct link to God and helps them in their spiritual journey. The guru is considered as a guide, mentor, and a source of divine knowledge.

Basava's Teachings:
Lingayats follow the teachings of Basavanna, who emphasized the principles of social equality, rejection of caste system, and the importance of individual spiritual experience over external rituals. Basava's teachings are compiled in the Vachana Sahitya, a collection of poetic works.

Key Beliefs:
Lingayats believe in the equality of all individuals, irrespective of their caste or social status. They reject the traditional Hindu caste system and promote social justice and equality. They also believe in the concept of "Kayaka" which emphasizes the importance of honest labor and service to society.

Rituals and Practices:
Lingayats have distinct rituals and practices that revolve around the worship of Shiva. They wear a small pendant called "Ishtalinga" that contains a small Linga, which they consider as a symbol of their devotion to Shiva. They also perform daily prayers, meditation, and recite sacred texts.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Lingayats worship Lord Shiva as their primary deity. They consider Shiva as the ultimate reality and focus on the formless aspect of God represented by the Linga. Lingayats also emphasize the importance of a spiritual guru, follow the teachings of Basavanna, and promote social equality and honest labor.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
i. During the period in North India, deities like Vishnu and Shiva were primarily worshipped in temples that were supported by rulers.
ii. The arrival of the Turks and the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate had no impact on the Rajput states.
iii. Alternative religious leaders such as Naths, Jogis, and Siddhas gained prominence, often questioning Vedic authority and using the languages of ordinary people.
iv. There was significant evidence of movements similar to the Alvars and Nayanars in North India well before the 14th century.
  • a)
    i and iii
  • b)
    ii and iv
  • c)
    i, iii, and iv
  • d)
    i and ii
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

- Statement i is correct because it accurately reflects the worship practices of the time, highlighting the role of rulers in temple patronage for deities like Vishnu and Shiva.
- Statement ii is incorrect; the arrival of the Turks and the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate indeed weakened the Rajput states.
- Statement iii is correct, as it points out the emergence of alternative religious leaders who challenged Vedic norms using accessible language.
- Statement iv is incorrect; there is no evidence of movements similar to the Alvars and Nayanars in this period until the 14th century.
Thus, the correct answer is Option A: i and iii.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
i. Arab merchants established trade links along the western coast of the Indian subcontinent from the early centuries CE, introducing Islam to the region.
ii. The Delhi Sultanate was established in the 13th century by Turks and Afghans, but it did not respect the religious institutions of non-Muslim subjects.
iii. Muslims in the subcontinent practiced the core tenets of Islam, including zakat and hajj, and incorporated local traditions into their practices.
iv. Mosques in the subcontinent strictly adhered to universal Islamic architectural styles without any regional variations.
  • a)
    A: i and iii
  • b)
    B: ii and iv
  • c)
    C: i, iii, and iv
  • d)
    D: i, ii, and iii
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

- Statement i is correct as it states that Arab merchants established trade links along the western coast of the Indian subcontinent from early centuries CE, which indeed facilitated the introduction of Islam to that region.
- Statement ii is incorrect because while the Delhi Sultanate was established by Turks and Afghans in the 13th century, Islamic rulers generally respected the religious institutions of non-Muslim subjects, as noted in the provided content.
- Statement iii is correct; Muslims in the subcontinent adhered to fundamental Islamic practices while also integrating local customs, creating a unique blend of religious and cultural practices.
- Statement iv is incorrect because mosques in the subcontinent do display regional variations in architectural styles, demonstrating a synthesis of universal Islamic elements with local traditions.
Thus, the correct statements are i and iii, making option A the correct answer.

What did the Avars and Nayanars claim as crucial as the Vedas?
  • a)
    Application
  • b)
    Formulations
  • c)
    Compositions
  • d)
    Function
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

The Importance of Vedas, Avars and Nayanars

The Vedas are considered the most sacred and foundational texts of Hinduism. They contain hymns, prayers, and rituals that are believed to have been revealed to ancient sages by the gods themselves. The Avars and Nayanars were two groups of devotees who lived during different periods in South India. While they had different beliefs and practices, they both claimed that their compositions were as crucial as the Vedas.

Composition of Avars and Nayanars

The Avars were a group of devotees who lived during the 6th and 7th centuries CE. They were known for their devotion to Lord Shiva and their compositions of devotional poetry in Tamil. Their works, collectively known as the Tevaram, are considered to be as important as the Vedas. The Avars believed that their poetry was inspired by the divine and that it had the power to bring devotees closer to God.

The Nayanars were a group of devotees who lived during the 7th to 10th centuries CE. They were also devotees of Lord Shiva and composed devotional poetry in Tamil. Their works, collectively known as the Tirumurai, are also considered to be as important as the Vedas. The Nayanars believed that their poetry was a form of worship and that it had the power to transform the devotee and bring them closer to God.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Avars and Nayanars claimed that their compositions were as crucial as the Vedas. They believed that their poetry was inspired by the divine and had the power to bring devotees closer to God. While their beliefs and practices differed from those of the Vedas, they were equally important to their followers.

What theory did the Lingayats question?
  • a)
    Awakening
  • b)
    Resurrection
  • c)
    Rebirth
  • d)
    Death
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Saumya Pillai answered
Lingayats and the Questioning of Rebirth Theory

The Lingayat community is a religious group that primarily resides in the state of Karnataka in India. The Lingayats follow the teachings of the 12th-century philosopher and social reformer, Basavanna. Basavanna rejected the caste system and advocated for social equality and the liberation of women.

One of the fundamental differences between Lingayats and Hinduism is their belief in the concept of rebirth. While Hinduism proposes that a person's soul is reborn after death, Lingayats reject this belief and instead believe in the concept of enlightenment or salvation.

Questioning Rebirth Theory

The Lingayats' rejection of rebirth theory is based on the following reasons:

1. Equality: Lingayats believe in the equality of all human beings. The concept of rebirth, according to them, creates a hierarchy in society, where some people are believed to be of higher birth or status due to their past life's karma.

2. Liberation: For Lingayats, the ultimate goal of life is to attain liberation or enlightenment. The belief in rebirth distracts people from this goal and focuses on the accumulation of good karma for a better rebirth.

3. Logical Inconsistencies: Lingayats believe that the concept of rebirth is logically inconsistent. They argue that it is impossible for a person's soul to transmigrate from one body to another after death.

4. Basavanna's Teachings: Basavanna rejected the caste system, and the belief in rebirth is closely tied to the caste hierarchy. According to Basavanna's teachings, all human beings are equal and should be treated as such.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Lingayats' rejection of rebirth theory is based on their belief in equality, liberation, logical inconsistencies, and the teachings of Basavanna. This rejection has led to a significant difference between Lingayats and Hinduism, which has a strong belief in the concept of rebirth.

Assertion (A): Sufism emerged as a response to the perceived materialism and institutionalization of the Caliphate in early Islamic history.
Reason (R): Sufis sought to emphasize intense devotion and love for God, which contradicted the practices of mainstream theologians.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • c)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

 
  • The Assertion is true as Sufism did indeed arise as a reaction against the materialistic tendencies of the Caliphate.
  • The Reason is also true because Sufis emphasized devotion and love for God, which was often at odds with the more formalized practices of mainstream Islam.
  • The Reason correctly explains the Assertion, as the spiritual focus of Sufism was a direct critique of the institutionalized practices of the time.
 

  • a)
    A-1, B-4, C-3, D-2
  • b)
    A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3 
  • c)
    A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
  • d)
    A-1, B-3, C-4, D-2 
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Answer: Option C
Solution:
Kabir (A) is known for his belief in the Ultimate Reality, which he described using diverse traditions, including Islamic and Vedantic concepts. Baba Guru Nanak (B) advocated Nirguna Bhakti, believing in a formless divine (1). Mirabai (C) is recognized for her devotion to Krishna as her lover (3). Basavanna (D) founded the Virashaiva movement (4).

What are two deities that devotees often tended to project as supreme?
  • a)
    Nirguna
  • b)
    Shiva and Krishna
  • c)
    Vishnu Or Shiva
  • d)
    Saguna
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Jyoti Das answered
The answer to the given question is option (C) Vishnu or Shiva.

Explanation:

• In Hinduism, there are various deities worshipped by the devotees, and the concept of supreme deity varies according to the beliefs of the individual.

• However, two deities, Vishnu and Shiva, are often projected as supreme in Hinduism because of their significant roles in mythology and their popularity among devotees.

• Vishnu is known as the preserver of the universe and is believed to have ten incarnations or avatars, including Lord Rama and Lord Krishna.

• On the other hand, Shiva is considered the destroyer of the universe and is worshipped in several forms, such as Lord Nataraja, Lord Mahadeva, and Lord Pashupati.

• The devotees of Vishnu consider him as the ultimate deity, as he is believed to protect and maintain the universe, and his followers are known as Vaishnavas.

• Similarly, the devotees of Shiva consider him as the supreme deity, as he is believed to destroy the old and make way for the new, and his followers are known as Shaivas.

• However, both Vishnu and Shiva are often depicted as different forms of the same ultimate reality, Brahman, and their devotees often acknowledge the importance of each other's beliefs.

• Therefore, the answer to the given question is option (C) Vishnu or Shiva as they are often projected as supreme deities in Hinduism.

Who set up a hospice in Ghiyaspur?
  • a)
    Shaikh Nizamuddin
  • b)
    Qalandars
  • c)
    Shaikh
  • d)
    Jogis
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Setting up a Hospice in Ghiyaspur


Shaikh Nizamuddin, a prominent Sufi saint and spiritual leader, is credited with setting up a hospice in Ghiyaspur. This hospice, known as Khanqah, served as a center for spiritual and social activities and provided care and support to the needy.


Shaikh Nizamuddin


Shaikh Nizamuddin, also known as Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, was a 14th-century Sufi saint and one of the most revered figures in the Chishti order of Sufism. He was born in 1238 CE in Badayun, Uttar Pradesh, India, and dedicated his life to spreading the teachings of Islam and Sufism.


Khanqah in Ghiyaspur


Khanqah is a term used to describe a Sufi hospice or monastery where Sufi disciples gather for spiritual practices, prayers, and seeking guidance from the spiritual leader. Shaikh Nizamuddin established a Khanqah in Ghiyaspur, a village located in present-day Delhi, India.


The hospice in Ghiyaspur served as a hub for spiritual activities and played a crucial role in promoting Sufi teachings and principles. It became a place of solace and refuge for people seeking spiritual guidance and support.


Purpose and Activities


The hospice set up by Shaikh Nizamuddin in Ghiyaspur had multiple purposes and engaged in various activities:



  • Providing shelter and care for the needy: The hospice offered a place to stay and basic amenities for the destitute and those in need.

  • Spiritual teachings and guidance: Shaikh Nizamuddin and his disciples conducted spiritual gatherings, where they would recite poems, hymns, and engage in discussions about Sufi philosophy and Islamic teachings.

  • Charitable works: The hospice actively engaged in charitable activities, such as distributing food, clothing, and other necessities to the poor and marginalized.

  • Healing and support: The Khanqah also served as a healing center, where individuals sought blessings and prayers for physical and spiritual well-being.



Legacy


Shaikh Nizamuddin's hospice in Ghiyaspur had a profound impact on the lives of people in the region. It became a symbol of compassion, spirituality, and social service. The teachings and practices carried out in the hospice continue to inspire and influence Sufi followers and spiritual seekers to this day.


Shaikh Nizamuddin's dedication to serving humanity and promoting spiritual values through the establishment of the hospice in Ghiyaspur exemplifies his profound commitment to the principles of Sufism and his desire to make a positive difference in society.

Who guided Muslim rulers?
  • a)
    Mujtahids
  • b)
    Ulama
  • c)
    None
  • d)
    Brahmins
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Anirudh Desai answered
Guidance of Muslim Rulers

The Muslim rulers were guided by the Ulama, who were considered to be the religious scholars and leaders of the Muslim community. They played a significant role in shaping the political, social, and religious aspects of Muslim society.

Role of Ulama

The Ulama were responsible for providing guidance to the Muslim rulers in various areas, including:

1. Sharia Law: The Ulama were the experts in Sharia law and provided guidance to Muslim rulers on how to govern according to Islamic principles.

2. Interpretation of Quran: They were responsible for interpreting the Quran and providing guidance on various aspects of Islamic life.

3. Issuing Fatwas: The Ulama were responsible for issuing Fatwas, which were legal opinions on various matters related to Islamic law.

4. Education: They were responsible for educating the Muslim community and training new Ulama to continue the tradition.

5. Moral Guidance: The Ulama provided moral guidance to the Muslim rulers, reminding them of their obligations to God and their subjects.

6. Political Advice: They advised the Muslim rulers on political matters, including diplomacy, military strategy, and governance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ulama played a significant role in guiding Muslim rulers. They provided guidance in various areas, including Sharia law, interpretation of the Quran, issuing Fatwas, education, moral guidance, and political advice. Their influence helped shape Muslim society and contributed to the development of Islamic civilization.

What tax did the zimmi pay to gain the right to be protected by Muslims?
  • a)
    Jizya
  • b)
    Dhimmis
  • c)
    Agriculture Tax
  • d)
    Poll-Tax
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Jizya was a tax that non-Muslims, known as zimmis, had to pay to Muslim rulers in order to be protected by them. It was a sign of their submission and loyalty to the Islamic state. Here is an explanation of jizya in detail:

What is Jizya?
Jizya is a tax that non-Muslims had to pay to Muslim rulers in exchange for protection. It was one of the ways that Muslim rulers raised revenue and maintained their power. The word jizya comes from the Arabic word jaza, which means "to compensate" or "to reward."

Who Paid Jizya?
Jizya was paid by non-Muslims, known as zimmis, who lived under Muslim rule. This included Christians, Jews, and other religious minorities. Muslims, on the other hand, were exempt from paying jizya because they were considered part of the Islamic community.

Why was Jizya Paid?
Jizya was paid as a sign of the zimmis' submission and loyalty to the Islamic state. It was also a way for them to receive protection from the Muslim rulers. In exchange for paying jizya, the zimmis were guaranteed safety and security in their homes and businesses.

How Much was Jizya?
The amount of jizya varied depending on the zimmi's financial status and the discretion of the Muslim rulers. In some cases, it was a fixed amount per person, while in others it was a percentage of their income or property. The jizya was usually collected annually.

Conclusion:
In summary, jizya was a tax that non-Muslims had to pay to Muslim rulers in order to be protected by them. It was a sign of their submission and loyalty to the Islamic state. Although it was seen as discriminatory by some, it was an important source of revenue for Muslim rulers and helped to maintain the stability of their empires.

Which of the following statements given above is/are correct?
i. Basavanna founded the Virashaiva movement in the 12th century in Karnataka, advocating for the worship of the linga.
ii. Lingayats are known for conducting cremation rituals for their deceased.
iii. The Virashaiva movement opposed Brahmanical norms such as caste distinctions and promoted marriage practices like widow remarriage.
iv. Vachanas, composed in Kannada, are the primary texts that convey the teachings of the Virashaiva tradition.
  • a)
    i and ii
  • b)
    i, iii, and iv
  • c)
    ii and iv
  • d)
    i and iii
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

- Statement i is correct as Basavanna did indeed found the Virashaiva movement in the 12th century and emphasized the worship of Shiva in the form of the linga.
- Statement ii is incorrect; Lingayats do not perform cremation rituals but instead ceremonially bury their dead.
- Statement iii is correct as the Virashaiva movement did challenge Brahmanical norms, including those related to caste and supported practices like widow remarriage.
- Statement iv is correct; vachanas are indeed the primary texts that articulate the beliefs and teachings of the Virashaiva tradition.
Thus, the correct statements are i, iii, and iv, making Option B the right choice.

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