Q. Which Sultan of Delhi categorized the Ulema into ‘Ulmai- Akhiral’ and ‘Ulma-i-Duniya’ and praised the former?
(a) Qutubuddin Aibak
(b) Iltutmish
(c) Balban
(d) Alauddin Khilji
Ans: (c) Balban
Explanation: The Sultan of Delhi who categorized the Ulema into ‘Ulmai-Akhiral’ and ‘Ulma-i-Duniya’ and praised the former is (c) Balban.
Ghiyasuddin Balban, commonly known as Balban, was a powerful ruler of the Delhi Sultanate who ruled from 1266 to 1287. He is known for his strict and authoritarian rule, emphasizing centralization of power and strengthening of the monarchy.
Balban categorized the Ulema (Islamic scholars) into two groups: ‘Ulmai-Akhiral’ and ‘Ulma-i-Duniya.’ The ‘Ulmai-Akhiral’ referred to the religious scholars who prioritized spiritual and religious matters over worldly concerns. Balban praised and favored this group, considering them more devoted to the Islamic faith and its teachings.
On the other hand, the ‘Ulma-i-Duniya’ comprised scholars who were more involved in worldly affairs and held administrative positions. Balban viewed this group with suspicion and believed that their involvement in politics and governance might compromise their religious commitments.
By praising the ‘Ulmai-Akhiral,’ Balban aimed to strengthen the religious influence in the state and promote a more orthodox interpretation of Islam. His categorization of the Ulema reflected his emphasis on religious authority and his efforts to maintain a strict Islamic character within the Delhi Sultanate.
Therefore, the correct answer is (c) Balban.
