Sufis and the state
Topic: Bhakti and Sufi Traditions · NCERT: Class 12, Ch 2 "Bhakti-Sufi Traditions"
Meaning
This is the relationship between sufi saints and Muslim rulers in medieval India. The Chishtis kept a distance from power and lived simply. Still, they accepted grants that were offered without being asked for. These included auqaf (charitable trusts) and inam (tax-free land). They spent the gifts at once on food, clothes and rituals instead of storing them. The Delhi Sultans ruled a population that was mostly not Muslim. The ulama (Muslim scholars of religious law) pressed them to rule strictly by shari'a (Islamic law). The Sultans resisted that pressure and turned to sufis for support, because the sufis' authority was believed to come directly from God. Kings even wanted to be buried near sufi shrines.
Example
Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya was offered a ruler's gift of gardens and land, and he turned it down. He followed Baba Farid's advice: accept money for the dervishes (poor sufi followers), but refuse land deeds.
Don't confuse with
- Suhrawardis and Naqshbandis: The Suhrawardis under the Delhi Sultans and the Naqshbandis under the Mughals stayed close to the state and sometimes held court offices. The Chishtis kept away from power.
Related concepts
- Chishti silsila
- Muinuddin Chishti
- Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki
- Nizamuddin Auliya
- Nasiruddin Chiragh-i Dehli
- Baba Farid
- Shaikh Salim Chishti
- Gesu Daraz
- Langar
- Sama