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Which of the following statements about Sufism is/are correct ? 1. Sufism was the mystical interpretation that developed within Islam. 2. Sufi philosophy highlighted the atmosphere of religious tolcrance by speaking about the universal love in quest of the Almighty. 3. The Sufis developed a very complex philosophy and initiated very complicated practices unintelligible to the masses. Select the correct answer using the code given below :
Explanation
Sufism is defined as the mystical dimension and inward interpretation of Islam [c1][t6]. It emerged as a protest against the growing materialism of the Caliphate, with practitioners seeking a personal experience of the Qur'an through devotion rather than dogmatic theology [c2]. Sufi philosophy is characterized by religious tolerance and 'catholicity,' emphasizing universal love and the promotion of humanity's interests regardless of communal distinctions [c1][t3][t5]. While Sufism does possess a metaphysical depth, statement 3 is incorrect because Sufism was not 'unintelligible to the masses.' On the contrary, it took root in both rural and urban areas, exercising a deep influence on the common people [c1]. Sufi thinkers often used parables and local languages to make their spiritual message accessible to the general population [c3][t8]. Therefore, only statements 1 and 2 are correct.
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
- [2] THEMES IN INDIAN HISTORY PART II, History CLASS XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 6: Bhakti-Sufi Traditions > 6. The Growth of Sufism > p. 153
- [3] THEMES IN INDIAN HISTORY PART II, History CLASS XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 6: Bhakti-Sufi Traditions > Write a short essay (about 250-300 words) on the following: > p. 168
- [4] https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000134318