QUESTION

Medium

Art & Culture

Prelims 2012

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:

Select an option to attempt

Explanation

Sufism emphasises self-purification and achieving a closer connection with God. Meditation and breath control techniques were used to attain inner peace and focus.

Some Sufi mystics practised asceticism, which involved self-denial and austerities. This could involve seclusion or living a simple life with minimal possessions. However, it wasn't the sole or defining practice of Sufism.

Sufi music (Sama) played a significant role in Sufi practice. Singing devotional songs and poems (qawwali) served to create a state of spiritual ecstasy (wajd) and connect with the divine.

Therefore, all three statements are correct.

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