Sufi Literature

Kashf-ul-Mahjub: The Oldest Persian Sufi Text

The Sufi treatise 'Kashf-ul-Mahjub' was written by the 11th-century saint and scholar Abul Hasan al-Hujwiri.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class XII - Themes in Indian History Part II

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The Sufi work Kashf-ul-Mahjub was written by

[CAPF 2019]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Kashf-ul-Mahjub is the oldest Persian-language treatise on Sufism, serving as a systematic guide to the history and philosophy of the mystical path.

Authentic Source Evidence


Written by Abul Hasan al-Hujwiri (also known as Ali Hujwiri or Data Ganj Bakhsh), who lived in Lahore in the 11th century.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Option A is Correct: The title means 'The Unveiling of the Veiled'.

  • Logic: The work defines the Sufi 'orders' and explains concepts like spiritual purification (Fana) and the direct experience of God (Kashf).
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What is the meaning of 'Kashf' in the title?"

    Kashf means 'unveiling' or 'revelation', referring to the removal of spiritual veils from the heart.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Hujwiri’s work was the first to provide a structured intellectual legitimacy to Sufism for a Persian-speaking audience in the Indian subcontinent."

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