Question

With reference to the religious history of medieval India, the Sufi mystics were known to pursue which of the following practices?

1. Meditation and control of breath

2. Severe ascetic exercises in a lonely place

3. Recitation of holy songs to arouse a state of ecstasy in their audience

Select the correct answer using the codes given below: 

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 4 : 1, 2 and 3

The correct answer is 1, 2 and 3.

• Sufism is a mystical form of Islam that focuses on the spiritual search for God and shuns materialism.
• The Sufi practices include-
  • a lot of emphasis on love and devotion towards God.
  • music and dance devotee expressions.
  • Meditation and control of breath practices.
  • The practice of Sama- a musical recital that intended to induce a mystical state of ecstasy.
  • Murid or disciple has to go through states and states by practising spiritual exercises in a lonely place.
• Hence all 1 2 and 3 are correct.

Important terms related to Sufism-

• Sufi, Pir, Murshid – Saint
• Khanqah – Place where Sufis lived
• Sama – Musical gathering
• Urs – Death
• Murid – Followers
• Khalifa – Disciples
• Zikr – Recitation of God’s name
• Tauba – Repentance