Name one feature of Akbar’s religious policies.
Level
GCSE
Year Examined
2021
Topic
Mughal Empire
👑Complete Model Essay
Name one feature of Akbar’s religious policies.
The Divine Right of Tolerance: A Defining Feature of Akbar's Religious Policies
Akbar, the Mughal emperor who reigned from 1556 to 1605, is renowned for his progressive and inclusive religious policies. While his legacy is multifaceted, one defining feature stands out: his belief in the "divine right of tolerance." This concept, embodied in his various religious reforms, shaped a unique approach to governance that prioritized peaceful coexistence and intellectual dialogue among different faiths.
Akbar's commitment to tolerance stemmed from his own personal experiences. Born into a turbulent era, he witnessed firsthand the destructive consequences of religious intolerance during the reign of his father, Humayun. He recognized the need for a unified approach to governance that transcended religious boundaries.
A key manifestation of Akbar's "divine right of tolerance" was his establishment of the **"Māzhar"*in 1579. This unique council, comprising scholars from diverse religious backgrounds, including Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, and Zoroastrianism, actively engaged in theological debates and discussions. The purpose was not to impose a single religious ideology but to foster understanding and dialogue. Through this platform, Akbar hoped to achieve a reconciliation between different faiths, based on shared values of peace and ethical conduct.
Furthermore, Akbar actively sought to bridge the gaps between religious communities through **practical reforms**. He abolished the discriminatory *jizyatax on non-Muslims, demonstrating his commitment to equitable treatment. He also promoted religious harmony by building mosques, temples, and churches alike, and encouraging the construction of public libraries stocked with religious texts from various traditions. This inclusive approach helped create a climate of mutual respect and understanding.
However, Akbar's embrace of tolerance wasn't simply a matter of political pragmatism. It was deeply rooted in his philosophical beliefs. He believed that all religions shared a common essence, a core truth that transcended their specific tenets. This belief is evidenced in his adoption of the **"Din-i-Ilahi,"*a syncretic philosophical system that drew inspiration from various religions. While often misinterpreted as a new religion, it was more accurately a personal philosophy embodying Akbar's belief in universal values like truth, justice, and compassion.
Akbar's "divine right of tolerance" serves as a testament to his vision of a unified and inclusive society. He recognized the power of dialogue and the importance of respecting diverse beliefs. While his reign was not without its flaws, his commitment to tolerance stands as a defining feature of his religious policies, shaping the Mughal Empire into a model of religious pluralism and intellectual exchange.
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Question:
Name one feature of Akbar’s religious policies.
Introduction
Briefly introduce Akbar the Great (Mughal Emperor, ruled from 1556-1605) and his reputation for religious tolerance in a time of conflict.
Clearly state the feature you will focus on. For example: "A key feature of Akbar's religious policies was his remarkable toleration of other beliefs within his diverse empire."
Body Paragraph 1: Evidence of the Feature
Choose ONE of the valid responses and provide specific historical evidence.
Example 1: Toleration
⭐ Allowed freedom of worship for Hindus, Christians, etc.
⭐ Ended the forced conversion of Hindus to Islam.
⭐ Employed people of different religions in his court.
⭐ Married Hindu princesses without forcing conversion.
Example 2: Abolition of Jizya
⭐ Explain what Jizya was (tax on non-Muslims).
⭐ Mention the year Akbar abolished it (1582).
⭐ Explain the significance of this act for religious equality.
Example 3: Support to Temples and Mosques
⭐ Provided financial support to both Hindu temples and Muslim mosques.
⭐ Showed his commitment to a multi-faith empire.
⭐ Mention specific examples if you know of any.
Example 4: Interaction with Sufi
⭐ Explain Sufism (mystical branch of Islam emphasizing tolerance).
⭐ Akbar had Sufi teachers and advisors.
⭐ This likely influenced his own views on religious tolerance.
Body Paragraph 2 (Optional): Impact/Significance
Briefly discuss the effect of this policy on the Mughal Empire:
⭐ Did it promote stability?
⭐ How did different religious groups react?
⭐ Did it make the empire stronger or weaker?
Conclusion
Briefly restate the feature you discussed and its importance in Akbar’s overall religious policy.
Offer a final thought. Was Akbar's policy unique or typical for rulers of his time?
Remember:
⭐ Use specific details and historical facts to support your points.
⭐ Write clearly and concisely.
⭐ Proofread your essay carefully before submitting it.
Extracts from Mark Schemes
The Divine Right of Tolerance: A Defining Feature of Akbar's Religious Policies
Akbar, the Mughal emperor who reigned from 1556 to 1605, is renowned for his progressive and inclusive religious policies. While his legacy is multifaceted, one defining feature stands out: his belief in the "divine right of tolerance." This concept, embodied in his various religious reforms, shaped a unique approach to governance that prioritized peaceful coexistence and intellectual dialogue among different faiths.
Akbar's commitment to tolerance stemmed from his own personal experiences. Born into a turbulent era, he witnessed firsthand the destructive consequences of religious intolerance during the reign of his father, Humayun. He recognized the need for a unified approach to governance that transcended religious boundaries.
A key manifestation of Akbar's "divine right of tolerance" was his establishment of the **"Māzhar"*in 1579. This unique council, comprising scholars from diverse religious backgrounds, including Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, and Zoroastrianism, actively engaged in theological debates and discussions. The purpose was not to impose a single religious ideology but to foster understanding and dialogue. Through this platform, Akbar hoped to achieve a reconciliation between different faiths, based on shared values of peace and ethical conduct.
Furthermore, Akbar actively sought to bridge the gaps between religious communities through **practical reforms**. He abolished the discriminatory *jizyatax on non-Muslims, demonstrating his commitment to equitable treatment. He also promoted religious harmony by building mosques, temples, and churches alike, and encouraging the construction of public libraries stocked with religious texts from various traditions. This inclusive approach helped create a climate of mutual respect and understanding.
However, Akbar's embrace of tolerance wasn't simply a matter of political pragmatism. It was deeply rooted in his philosophical beliefs. He believed that all religions shared a common essence, a core truth that transcended their specific tenets. This belief is evidenced in his adoption of the **"Din-i-Ilahi,"*a syncretic philosophical system that drew inspiration from various religions. While often misinterpreted as a new religion, it was more accurately a personal philosophy embodying Akbar's belief in universal values like truth, justice, and compassion.
Akbar's "divine right of tolerance" serves as a testament to his vision of a unified and inclusive society. He recognized the power of dialogue and the importance of respecting diverse beliefs. While his reign was not without its flaws, his commitment to tolerance stands as a defining feature of his religious policies, shaping the Mughal Empire into a model of religious pluralism and intellectual exchange.