Islamic Studies/Islamiat MCQs
Topic Notes: Islamic Studies/Islamiat
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
91
Which Sufi practice involves 'spiritual vigil' or meditation on the heart?
Answer:
Muraqaba
Muraqaba is a form of Sufi meditation where the seeker monitors their own thoughts and heart, focusing exclusively on the awareness of Allah. It is aimed at achieving a state of constant mindfulness and internal stillness.
92
The term 'Wali' (plural Awliya) in Sufism literally means:
Answer:
Friend or Protector (of Allah)
A 'Wali-Allah' is a 'Friend of God.' In Sufi tradition, this refers to an individual who has attained proximity to Allah through purification, piety, and devotion, and is believed to be under special Divine protection and grace.
93
Which Sufi saint is famously buried in Multan and was a major figure of the Suhrawardi order in India?
Answer:
Baha-ud-din Zakariya
Sheikh Baha-ud-din Zakariya established the Suhrawardi order in the 13th-century Subcontinent. His center in Multan became a major missionary and educational hub, and he was known for maintaining a balanced life of spiritual focus and social influence.
94
The concept of 'Ishq-e-Haqiqi' refers to:
Answer:
Love for the Eternal Truth (Allah)
In Sufi poetry, 'Ishq-e-Majazi' (metaphorical/human love) is often seen as a training ground for 'Ishq-e-Haqiqi' (real love for God). The ultimate goal is to direct all emotional intensity and devotion toward the Creator.
95
Which Sufi order is known for its 'Silent Dhikr' (Dhikr-e-Khafi)?
Answer:
Naqshbandi
The Naqshbandi order prioritizes silent remembrance in the heart over vocal chanting. They believe that silent Dhikr is more effective in preventing 'Riya' (showing off) and achieving deep focus on the Divine Presence within the soul.
96
The term 'Sama' in Sufism refers to:
Answer:
Listening to spiritual music and poetry
Sama involves the use of music, poetry, and sometimes movement to arouse spiritual ecstasy and love for God. While controversial among some jurists, it was embraced by orders like the Chishtis and Mevlevis as a powerful tool for spiritual activation.
97
Who wrote 'Kashf al-Mahjub' (The Unveiling of the Hidden), the oldest Persian treatise on Sufism?
Answer:
Ali Hujwiri (Data Ganj Baksh)
Ali Hujwiri, popularly known as Data Ganj Baksh, wrote this seminal text in the 11th century. It provides a comprehensive biography of Sufis and explains the doctrines and practices of different schools, serving as a textbook for seekers in the Subcontinent.
98
Which Sufi term refers to the 'annihilation' of the individual ego in the Divine Presence?
Answer:
Fana
Fana is the spiritual experience where the seeker's sense of 'I' vanishes into the reality of God. It is often followed by 'Baqa' (subsistence), where the person returns to the world but remains internally occupied with Allah.
99
The 'Suhrawardi' order was founded by:
Answer:
Both A and B
The Suhrawardi order was initiated by Abu al-Najib Suhrawardi and expanded by his nephew, Shahabuddin Suhrawardi, author of 'Awarif al-Ma'arif'. This order became very influential in India through saints like Baha-ud-din Zakariya of Multan.
100
The doctrine of 'Wahdat al-Shuhud' (Unity of Witnessing) was proposed as an alternative to Ibn Arabi's views by:
Answer:
Ahmad Sirhindi (Mujaddid Alif Sani)
Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi formulated Wahdat al-Shuhud to emphasize that while the seeker feels a 'unity' with God in their spiritual experience (witnessing), the Creator and creation remain ontologically distinct. This helped safeguard the transcendence of God against pantheistic misinterpretations.