Q. The most important check on the absolutism of sultans of Delhi was
the power of
(a) wazir
(b) ulemas
(c) Quran
(d) caliph
Ans: (b) ulemas
Explanation:
The most important check on the absolutism of sultans of Delhi was the power of (b) ulemas.
Ulemas were religious scholars and jurists who played a crucial role in the governance of the Delhi Sultanate, which was a Muslim empire that ruled over parts of the Indian subcontinent from the 13th to the 16th century. The ulemas held significant influence over the sultans due to their expertise in Islamic law and theology. They were responsible for interpreting religious texts, including the Quran, and guiding the sultans on matters of governance and administration.
The sultans of Delhi sought the support and legitimacy of the ulemas to maintain their rule. The ulemas had the authority to issue fatwas (legal opinions) and exerted moral pressure on the sultans to adhere to Islamic principles in their governance. They could criticize the sultan’s policies, decisions, or actions if they were deemed contrary to Islamic law or principles.
Therefore, the power of the ulemas acted as a vital check on the absolutism of the sultans of Delhi, ensuring that their rule remained within the framework of Islamic law and providing a mechanism for the religious scholars to voice their concerns and influence the rulers’ decisions.