CAPF 2020

Mughal Religious Policy

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Consider the following statements about sulh-i kul : 1. It means 'absolute peace'. 2. It provided for freedom of expression to all religions and schools of thought. 3. The ideal of sulh-i kul was implemented through state policies. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Sulh-i Kul was the cornerstone of Akbar's administrative and religious philosophy, aimed at managing a diverse empire through inclusion and tolerance.

Explanation Developed with Abul Fazl, the policy allowed all religions to coexist under the umbrella of the state, provided they did not undermine the Emperor's authority or engage in sectarian strife.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Statement 1 is correct. It literally translates to 'Universal Peace' or 'Absolute Peace'.
Logic 2: Statement 2 is correct. It allowed diverse religious groups (Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Zoroastrians) to express their views, notably in the Ibadat Khana.
Logic 3: Statement 3 is correct. It was reflected in policies like the abolition of Jizya (religious tax) and the appointment of officers based on merit rather than faith.

Active Recall

Question

Was Sulh-i Kul a new religion?

Answer

No, it was a state ideology of tolerance and co-existence rather than a theological creed.

Core Insight

Sulh-i Kul transformed the Mughal Emperor into a 'shadow of God' (Zill-i Ilahi) who stood above all religious disputes, ensuring the stability of the empire.