[Solved] Which Sufi Order was Against Music? Naqshbandiya Explained

Which of the following order of Sufism was against music:

[UPPCS Mains 2013]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

While many Sufi orders (Silsilas) in India used music and poetry to reach spiritual ecstasy, others followed a more orthodox and puritanical path.

Authentic Source Evidence

The Naqshbandiya order was known for its strict adherence to the Sharia and its opposition to innovations like musical gatherings (Sama). They practiced 'Zikr-i-Khafi' (silent remembrance of God) rather than vocal chanting or music.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Option D is correct. Under leaders like Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi, the Naqshbandis became influential defenders of orthodox Islam against the liberal policies of Mughal emperors like Akbar.

Logic 2: The Chishtiya (A) were the primary proponents of music. The Suhrawardiya (B) and Qadiriya (C) were generally more flexible than the Naqshbandis regarding rituals.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What is 'Zikr-i-Khafi'?"

It is the 'silent remembrance' of God, performed in the heart, which is the hallmark of the Naqshbandi spiritual method.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The Naqshbandi opposition to music was part of a larger ideological movement to preserve traditional Islamic boundaries against the syncretic trends of the Bhakti-Sufi era."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Sama 4

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