66th BPSC (Pre) 2020

Mughal Religious Innovations

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who promulgated Din-i-elahi?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Akbar’s spiritual quest culminated in a new ethical code that combined the best elements of all religions. It was designed to create a sense of shared loyalty to the Emperor among the diverse nobility.

Explanation Akbar promulgated Din-i-Ilahi (Divine Monotheism) in 1582. It was less a religion and more an elite code of conduct that borrowed from Islam, Hinduism, Jainism, and Christianity. It emphasized moral purity and total devotion to the Emperor as the spiritual guide.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: It was never intended for the masses; only about 19 close courtiers (like Birbal and Abu'l Fazl) were ever initiated into it.
Logic 2: The concept was part of Akbar's broader 'Sulh-i-Kul' policy, aimed at reducing religious conflict within the imperial administration.

Active Recall

Question

Did Din-i-Ilahi survive after Akbar?

Answer

No, it was an elite movement tied to Akbar's personality and vanished shortly after his death in 1605.

Core Insight

Din-i-Ilahi was the ultimate political tool of 'Enlightened Despotism,' making the King both the secular and spiritual head of the empire.