Background:
The religious doctrine 'Din-i-Ilahi' was introduced by a Mughal ruler in 1581. This doctrine aimed to create a syncretic religion that blended elements of Islam, Hinduism, Jainism, Zoroastrianism, and Christianity.
Answer:
The Mughal ruler who started the religious doctrine 'Din-i-Ilahi' was Akbar.
Explanation:
Akbar, known as Akbar the Great, was the third Mughal emperor who reigned from 1556 to 1605. He was known for his religious tolerance and his efforts to promote harmony among different religious communities in his empire.
Here are some key points about Akbar and his religious doctrine:
1. Akbar's religious beliefs:
- Akbar was deeply interested in religious and philosophical matters.
- He believed in the unity of God and sought to create a religion that transcended sectarian divisions.
- Akbar's religious beliefs also reflected his political ideology, as he aimed to create a sense of unity and loyalty among his diverse subjects.
2. The creation of Din-i-Ilahi:
- In 1581, Akbar introduced the religious doctrine called 'Din-i-Ilahi' or 'Divine Faith.'
- The doctrine was a syncretic blend of various religious traditions, including Islam, Hinduism, Jainism, Zoroastrianism, and Christianity.
- It aimed to create a common platform for religious and philosophical discussions among scholars and intellectuals of different faiths.
3. Key principles of Din-i-Ilahi:
- The central principle of Din-i-Ilahi was the belief in the unity of God and the rejection of idol worship.
- Akbar emphasized ethical conduct and encouraged his followers to practice virtues such as honesty, piety, and justice.
- The doctrine also promoted mutual respect and tolerance among different religious communities.
4. Acceptance and decline:
- While Akbar had a circle of followers who embraced Din-i-Ilahi, it did not gain widespread acceptance among the general population.
- After Akbar's death, his successors, especially Aurangzeb, did not support or promote the doctrine, leading to its decline.
In conclusion, Akbar, the third Mughal emperor, started the religious doctrine 'Din-i-Ilahi' in 1581. This syncretic doctrine aimed to promote religious tolerance, unity, and ethical conduct among his diverse subjects. While it did not gain long-term acceptance, it remains a significant aspect of Akbar's reign and his efforts towards religious harmony.