Chapter 2
BHAKTI –SUFI TRADITIONS
Answer in100-150 words
1. Explain with examples what historians mean by the integration of cults.
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2. To what extent do you think the architecture of mosques in the subcontinent reflects a combination of universal ideals and local traditions?
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3. What were the similarities and differences between the be-shari‘a and ba-shari‘a sufi traditions?
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4. Discuss the ways in which the Alvars, Nayanars and Virashaivas expressed critiques of the caste system.
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5. Describe the major teachings of either Kabir or Baba Guru Nanak, and the ways in which these have been transmitted.
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Write a short essay (about 250-300 words) on the following:
6. Discuss the major beliefs and practices that characterised Sufism.
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7. Examine how and why rulers tried to establish connections with the traditions of the Nayanars and the sufis.
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8. Analyse, with illustrations, why bhakti and sufi thinkers adopted a variety of languages in which to express their opinions.
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9. Read any five of the sources included in this chapter and discuss the social and religious ideas that are expressed in them.
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Map work
10. On an outline map of India, plot three major sufi shrines, and three places associated with temples (one each of a form of Vishnu, Shiva and the goddess).
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Projects (choose one)
11. Choose any two of the religious teachers/thinkers/ saints mentioned in this chapter, and find out more about their lives and teachings. Prepare a report about the area and the times in which they lived, their major ideas, how we know about them, and why you think they are important.
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12. Find out more about practices of pilgrimage associated with the shrines mentioned in this chapter. Are these pilgrimages still undertaken? When are these shrines visited? Who visits these shrines? Why do they do so? What are the activities associated with these pilgrimages?
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