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Consider the following statements about Suflsm : 1. The Sufis were critical of the dogmatic definitions and scholastic methods of interpreting the Quran and Sunna (traditions of the Prophet) adopted by the theologians. 2. The Sufis sought an interpretation of the Quran on the basis of their personal experience. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Explanation
Sufism emerged as a mystical dimension of Islam that prioritized inner purity and spiritual experience over external rituals [1]. Statement 1 is correct as Sufis were notably critical of the dogmatic definitions and scholastic methods used by theologians to interpret the Quran and Sunna [1]. They rebelled against religious formalism and orthodoxy, seeking a more direct connection with the Divine [1]. Statement 2 is also correct because Sufis emphasized a subjective and esoteric interpretation of the Quran based on their personal spiritual experiences and 'inner' meanings (bathin), rather than purely intellectual or exoteric (zahir) analysis. This approach, often involving methods like ta'wil and contemplation, allowed them to unveil spiritual truths through their own state of mind and mystical journey. Consequently, both statements accurately reflect the historical and philosophical stance of the Sufi movement.
Sources
- [1] History , class XI (Tamilnadu state board 2024 ed.) > Chapter 13: Cultural Syncretism: Bhakti Movement in India > 13.3 Impact of Sufism > p. 193