Keyboard To Remember
- Allah – The Arabic word for God in Islam.
- Prophet – A messenger chosen by God to deliver His teachings; in Islam, Prophet Mohammad is the last prophet.
- Quran – The holy book of Islam believed to be the word of God revealed to Prophet Mohammad.
- Mecca – A holy city in Saudi Arabia; birthplace of Prophet Mohammad and site of pilgrimage (Haj).
- Madina – The city to which Prophet Mohammad migrated; second holiest site in Islam.
- Haj – A religious pilgrimage to Mecca that Muslims are expected to make at least once in their lifetime.
- Roza – Fasting observed by Muslims during the month of Ramzan from dawn to dusk.
- Namaz – Islamic prayer offered five times a day.
- Zakat – A religious obligation to give a portion of one’s wealth to the poor and needy.
- Khalifa – The political and religious leader of the Muslim community after Prophet Mohammad’s death.
- Shia – A sect in Islam that believes leadership should stay within the family of the Prophet.
- Sunni – The largest sect of Islam that believes the leader should be elected by consensus.
- Sikhism – A monotheistic religion founded by Guru Nanak in the 15th century in Punjab.
- Guru – A spiritual teacher in Sikhism.
- Sangat – A religious gathering where people of all backgrounds recite God’s name collectively.
- Pangat – A tradition in Sikhism where people sit together and eat food (langar) without any discrimination.
- Langar – Community kitchen in a Gurdwara that serves free meals to all visitors.
- Adi Granth / Guru Granth Sahib – The holy scripture of Sikhs, compiled by the Sikh Gurus.
- Khalsa – The community of the pure created by Guru Gobind Singh for upholding justice and faith.
- Amrit – Holy water used in Sikh baptism ceremony.
- Five K’s (Panj Kakaar) – Five articles of faith that baptized Sikhs must carry: Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (comb), Kara (steel bracelet), Kaccha (shorts), and Kirpan (dagger).
- Bhakti – Devotion and love towards a personal god or God.
- Moksha – Liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
- Alvars – Vaishnavite saints from Tamil Nadu who were devotees of Vishnu.
- Nayanars – Shaivite saints from Tamil Nadu who were devotees of Shiva.
- Dohas – Two-line verses composed by saints like Kabir to express spiritual ideas.
- Vedic Period – The time in ancient Indian history when the Vedas were composed and followed.
- Ramananda – A Bhakti saint who spread the Bhakti movement in northern India.
- Kabir – A prominent Bhakti poet and saint known for preaching unity between Hindus and Muslims.
- Nanak – The first Sikh Guru who preached the unity of God and denounced caste discrimination.
- Sufism – A mystical Islamic belief that focuses on personal experience of God through love and devotion.
- Pir – A spiritual teacher or saint in Sufism.
- Murid – A disciple or follower of a Sufi teacher.
- Khanqah – A spiritual retreat or monastery where Sufi saints lived and taught.
- Tauba – Repentance in Sufism; the first step toward union with God.
- Tawakkul – Complete trust and reliance on God.
- Chisti Order – A popular Sufi order established by Khwaja Muinuddin Chisti in India.
- Suhrawardi Order – A Sufi order established by Shaikh Bahauddin Zakaria.
- Naqshbandi Order – Another Sufi order established by Khwaja Bagi Bittah.
- Haqq – The ultimate truth or God, as believed in Sufism.
- Khalaq – The created universe or creation.
- Omnipotent – One who has unlimited power; a term used for God.
- Omnipresent – Being present everywhere at the same time; a quality attributed to God.
- Nirankar Brahma – The formless form of God, as believed in Sikhism and Bhakti movement.
- Riza – Acceptance of God’s will, an important concept in Sufism.
- Gurbani – The sacred hymns composed by the Sikh Gurus and contained in Guru Granth Sahib.
- Kirtan – Devotional songs or hymns sung in praise of God, commonly practiced in Sikhism.
- Akal Takht – The highest seat of authority in Sikhism, established by Guru Har Gobind.
- Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) – The holiest Gurdwara of Sikhism located in Amritsar.
- Tulsidas – A Bhakti saint known for composing Ramcharitmanas in praise of Lord Rama.
Something To Know
A. Tick (✔) the correct option.
- Who among the following was NOT a sufi saint?
(a) Nizamuddin Aulia
(b) Khwaja Muinnuddin Chisti
(c) Kabir
(d) Amir Khusro
Answer – (c) Kabir
- In which religion pilgrimage to ‘Haj’ is practised?
(a) Hinduism
(b) Islam
(c) Sikhism
(d) Jainism
Answer – (b) Islam
- The Bhakti Movement originated in-
(a) North India
(b) West India
(c) South India
(d) East India
Answer – (c) South India
- Bhakti saints did not oppose-
(a) superstitions
(b) narrow mindedness
(c) caste system
(d) communal harmony
Answer – (d) communal harmony
- Who constructed the Akal Takht near the Golden temple?
(a) Guru Har Gobind
(b) Guru Arjun Dev
(c) Guru Ram Das
(d) Guru Gobind Singh
Answer – (d) Guru Gobind Singh
B. Fill in the blanks.
- The founder of Islam __________ was born in __________ in 570 CE.
Answer – Prophet Mohammad, Mecca
- Sikhism is based on __________ tradition.
Answer – Guru-Shishya
- Gurudwara Harminder Sahib is situated in __________
Answer – Amritsar
- __________took ideas of Bhakti to the north.
Answer – Ramananda
- Alvars worshipped __________ and Nayanars worhipped __________ .
Answer – Vishnu, Shiva
C. Match the following:
- Adi Granth a. Islam
- Bhakti movement b. Hindu-Muslim unity ement
- Sheikh Sali c. Sikhism m Chisti
- Kabir d. Medieval period
- The Quran e. Sufism
Answer –
Column A | Column B | Answer |
1. Adi Granth | c. Sikhism | 1 – c |
2. Bhakti movement | d. Medieval period | 2 – d |
3. Sheikh Salim Chisti | e. Sufism | 3 – e |
4. Kabir | b. Hindu-Muslim unity | 4 – b |
5. The Quran | a. Islam | 5 – a |
D. Answer the following questions in brief.
- How did the city of Amritsar take its name? Who constructed Gurudwara Harminder Sahib?
Answer – Guru Ram Das dug a holy tank called “Amritsar,” which gave the city its name. Guru Arjun Dev constructed the Gurudwara Harminder Sahib in the middle of the tank.
- When did Prophet Mohammad attain revelation and how?
Answer – Prophet Mohammad received his first revelation at the age of 40 while meditating in a cave near Mecca. It was believed to be from Angel Gabriel.
- What was the way to realise God according to Guru Nanak?
Answer – Guru Nanak taught that to realise God, one must be egoless, renounce worldly desires, and serve humanity selflessly.
- Give the meaning of Bhakti and name four prominent Bhakti saints.
Answer – Bhakti means devotion to God. Four Bhakti saints are Kabir, Meera, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, and Tulsidas.
- State the practices of Sufis which are similar to Hinduism or Buddhism.
Answer – Practices such as penance, fasting, meditation (pranayama), and belief in equality are common in Sufism, Hinduism, and Buddhism.
E. Answer the following questions
- Explain the teachings of Islam with special reference to its principles.
Answer – Islam teaches belief in one God (Allah), prayer five times a day, charity to the poor (zakat), fasting during Ramzan (roza), and pilgrimage to Mecca (Haj). It emphasizes justice, compassion, and brotherhood.
- Mention the features of Islam that make it a humane religion.
Answer – Islam emphasizes kindness, helping the poor, honesty, equality, and respect for all. It encourages good deeds and warns against evil acts.
- Explain the contribution of Guru Teg Bahadur and Guru Gobind Singh to Sikhism.
Answer – Guru Teg Bahadur encouraged Sikhs to resist Mughal oppression. Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa Panth to protect faith and fight injustice, and declared Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru.
- State the importance of Bhakti movement in reforming and uniting the Indian society?
Answer – The Bhakti movement reduced caste barriers, denounced rituals and idol worship, promoted equality, and brought Hindus and Muslims closer through shared values of love and devotion.
- Enlist the similarities between Islam and Sikhism.
Answer – Both believe in one God, reject idol worship, emphasize equality, promote charity, discourage superstitions, and uphold moral values and service to humanity.
Value Based Question
Read this beautiful poem about Kabir’s thinking-
God be within the mosque, to whom does this world belong? If Rama be within the image, then who is there to know what happens without? Hari is in the east, Allah is in the west. Look within your own heart, for there you will find both Rahim and Rama. All the men and women of the world are His living forms. Kabir is the child of Allah and Rama both.
– Based on the above text, prepare a message for all human beings.
Answer – We are all children of one God. Kabir urges us to look beyond religion and see unity in diversity. True worship is not in rituals but in love, kindness, and equality for all.
– When all religions propagate love and compassion, why do some people are intolerant towards other religions?
Answer – Some people misunderstand or misuse religion for personal or political gain. Lack of education and prejudice also cause intolerance. True understanding can restore peace and harmony.
Something To Do
- Prepare a tabular presentation of different religions under the following columns-
Answer –
Religion | Founder | Holy Book | Symbol | Place of Worship | Greeting Style | Main Teachings |
Islam | Prophet Mohammad | Quran | Crescent Moon & Star | Mosque | Assalamu Alaikum | One God, equality, prayer, charity |
Sikhism | Guru Nanak | Guru Granth Sahib | Khanda | Gurudwara | Sat Sri Akal | One God, service, equality, honesty |
Hinduism | No single founder | Vedas, Ramayana | Om (ॐ) | Temple | Namaste | Dharma, karma, moksha, truth |
Christianity | Jesus Christ | Bible | Cross | Church | Peace be with you | Love, compassion, forgiveness |
Buddhism | Gautama Buddha | Tripitaka | Dharma Wheel | Monastery | Buddham Sharanam Gacchami | Eightfold Path, non-violence |
- Organise ‘Harmony’ a musical activity in the class in different groups who would sing bhajans, Sufi Kalams, Shabads, Kabir’s dohas or verses from The Ramayan, etc.
Answer – Organize groups to sing:
Bhajans (e.g., “Vaishnav Jan To”)
Sufi Kalams (e.g., “Chaap Tilak”)
Shabads (e.g., “Ek Onkar”)
Kabir’s Dohas (e.g., “Bura Jo Dekhan Main Chala”)
Verses from Ramayan (e.g., Tulsidas’s “Shri Ramchandra Kripalu Bhajman”)
This promotes religious harmony, cultural appreciation, and unity.
Additional Questions and Answers – 01
Fill in the Blanks (with Answers):
- The holy book of Islam is called the Quran.
- Guru Nanak was the founder of Sikhism.
- The Bhakti movement began in the southern part of India.
- Sufi saints lived in hermitages called Khanqahs.
- The Khalsa Panth was established by Guru Gobind Singh.
- The first Khalifa after Prophet Mohammad was Abu Bakr.
- The followers of Sufi saints were called Murid.
- Langar is the community kitchen system introduced by the Sikhs.
- Guru Nanak preached the belief in Nirankar Brahma.
- Surdas and Meera Bai were famous Bhakti poets and devotees of Krishna.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers:
- What is the sacred scripture of Sikhism?
(a) Quran
(b) Bible
(c) Guru Granth Sahib
(d) Gita
Answer: (c) Guru Granth Sahib - Which Sufi saint established the Chisti order?
(a) Baba Farid
(b) Khwaja Muinuddin Chisti
(c) Amir Khusro
(d) Nizamuddin Aulia
Answer: (b) Khwaja Muinuddin Chisti - Which one of these is NOT a principle of Islam?
(a) Prayers
(b) Alms-giving
(c) Idol worship
(d) Fasting during Ramzan
Answer: (c) Idol worship - Kabir composed his teachings mostly in the form of:
(a) Essays
(b) Dohas
(c) Dramas
(d) Shabads
Answer: (b) Dohas - Which Guru constructed the city of Amritsar?
(a) Guru Arjun Dev
(b) Guru Nanak
(c) Guru Ram Das
(d) Guru Gobind Singh
Answer: (c) Guru Ram Das
True / False (with Answers):
- Prophet Mohammad believed in idol worship.
False - The Bhakti Movement encouraged the caste system.
False - The Adi Granth is a holy book of Sikhism.
True - Sufis followed only Islamic customs strictly.
False - Guru Gobind Singh created the Khalsa Panth.
True - Bhakti and Sufi saints preached in local languages.
True - The Quran is written in Persian.
False (It is written in Arabic)
Competency Based Questions (with Answers):
- Q: If a child is being discriminated against in school due to caste, how would a Bhakti saint react?
Answer: A Bhakti saint would oppose such discrimination and promote equality and unity among all human beings, as they believed all are equal in the eyes of God. - Q: Imagine you are a Sufi saint. What message would you give to your followers during a time of conflict?
Answer: I would preach love, patience, and unity. I would say: “All humans are children of God. Loving humanity is loving God.” - Q: How would you respond if someone says one religion is better than others?
Answer: I would explain that all religions teach kindness, truth, and love. No religion is superior; all aim at connecting humans with God and promoting peace.
High Order Thinking Skill (HOTS) Questions with Answers:
- Q: Why do you think Bhakti and Sufi movements are considered social reform movements as well?
Answer: Because they challenged casteism, promoted equality, denounced blind rituals, and emphasized inner devotion, thus transforming societal norms and promoting social harmony. - Q: How did the teachings of Guru Nanak promote secularism?
Answer: Guru Nanak preached that all human beings are equal and God is one, irrespective of religious differences, promoting a secular and inclusive society. - Q: In what way are the teachings of Kabir and the message of Sufism similar?
Answer: Both emphasized love, unity of God, equality, and denounced religious formalities and divisions, advocating a direct and personal connection with the divine.
Short Questions and Answers:
- Who established the Khalsa Panth and when?
Answer: Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa Panth in 1699 CE at Anandpur Sahib. - What is the significance of Sangat and Pangat in Sikhism?
Answer: Sangat is collective prayer; Pangat is community eating. Both promote equality and unity. - What is the meaning of Sufi?
Answer: The term ‘Sufi’ comes from ‘Suf’ meaning wool, as they wore woollen garments and led simple, spiritual lives. - Why did Prophet Mohammad move to Madina?
Answer: He moved due to opposition from the rich and orthodox people in Mecca.
Long Questions and Answers (within 60–70 words):
- Explain the key teachings of Islam.
Answer: Islam teaches belief in one God (Allah) and Prophet Mohammad as His messenger. It requires followers to pray five times daily, fast during Ramzan, give charity, and go on pilgrimage (Haj) if possible. Islam promotes justice, kindness, and equality among all. - Describe the contribution of Guru Gobind Singh to Sikhism.
Answer: Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa Panth to defend religious freedom. He introduced the five Ks (Kesh, Kara, Kachha, Kirpan, Kangha) as symbols of Sikh identity and declared Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru, strengthening Sikh unity and devotion. - How did the Bhakti Movement impact Indian society?
Answer: The Bhakti Movement bridged social gaps, challenged caste-based divisions, and promoted love, devotion, and equality. Saints like Kabir, Meera, and Chaitanya used local languages to reach the masses, uniting people across religions and regions.
Additional Questions and Answers – 02
Fill in the Blanks Questions and Answers
- Question: Islam was founded by Prophet ______ who was born in Mecca in 570 CE.
Answer: Islam was founded by Prophet Mohammad who was born in Mecca in 570 CE. - Question: Prophet Mohammad received the revelation while meditating in a cave near ______ and declared himself the Prophet of Allah.
Answer: Prophet Mohammad received the revelation while meditating in a cave near Mecca and declared himself the Prophet of Allah. - Question: The holy book of Islam, revealed to Mohammad by angel Gabriel, is called the ______.
Answer: The holy book of Islam, revealed to Mohammad by angel Gabriel, is called the Quran. - Question: After Mohammad’s death in 632 CE, ______ became the first Khalifa.
Answer: After Mohammad’s death in 632 CE, Abu Bakr became the first Khalifa. - Question: Every Muslim should keep fast during the holy month of ______ from dawn to dusk.
Answer: Every Muslim should keep fast during the holy month of Ramzan from dawn to dusk. - Question: The two main sects of Islam that emerged after Mohammad’s death are ______ and Shia.
Answer: The two main sects of Islam that emerged after Mohammad’s death are Sunni and Shia. - Question: Sikhism was founded by Guru ______ who was born in 1469 CE.
Answer: Sikhism was founded by Guru Nanak who was born in 1469 CE. - Question: Guru Nanak established ______ (religious gathering) and Pangat (eating together) to promote equality.
Answer: Guru Nanak established Sangat (religious gathering) and Pangat (eating together) to promote equality. - Question: The sacred scripture of Sikhs is the ______ Granth, also known as Shri Guru Granth Sahib.
Answer: The sacred scripture of Sikhs is the Adi Granth, also known as Shri Guru Granth Sahib. - Question: Guru ______ Dev constructed the Gurudwara Harminder Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple.
Answer: Guru Arjun Dev constructed the Gurudwara Harminder Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple. - Question: The last Sikh Guru, ______ Singh, created the Khalsa Panth in 1699 CE.
Answer: The last Sikh Guru, Gobind Singh, created the Khalsa Panth in 1699 CE. - Question: Every Amritdhari Sikh must have the five K’s, including Kesh, Kangha, Kara, Kaccha, and ______.
Answer: Every Amritdhari Sikh must have the five K’s, including Kesh, Kangha, Kara, Kaccha, and Kirpan. - Question: The Bhakti Movement started in the ______ region during the 7th and 8th centuries.
Answer: The Bhakti Movement started in the Tamil region during the 7th and 8th centuries. - Question: ______ took the ideas of the Bhakti Movement to the north and worshipped Shri Ram.
Answer: Ramananda took the ideas of the Bhakti Movement to the north and worshipped Shri Ram. - Question: ______ and Ravidas, disciples of Ramananda, opposed the caste system and superstitions.
Answer: Kabir and Ravidas, disciples of Ramananda, opposed the caste system and superstitions. - Question: ______ Mahaprabhu was an ardent devotee of Krishna in Bengal and Odisha.
Answer: Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was an ardent devotee of Krishna in Bengal and Odisha. - Question: Sufism was inspired by the ______ and the belief in one God.
Answer: Sufism was inspired by the Quran and the belief in one God. - Question: The Chisti Order of Sufism was established by Khwaja ______ Chisti.
Answer: The Chisti Order of Sufism was established by Khwaja Muinnuddin - Question: Sufis believed that to achieve union with God, one must pass through ten states, starting with ______ (repentance).
Answer: Sufis believed that to achieve union with God, one must pass through ten states, starting with Tauba (repentance). - Question: Famous Sufi saints included Baba Farid, Bakhtiar Kaki, and ______ Aulia.
Answer: Famous Sufi saints included Baba Farid, Bakhtiar Kaki, and Nizamuddin
Multiple Choice Questions and Answers
- Question: Who founded Islam and where was he born?
a) Prophet Mohammad, Madina
b) Prophet Mohammad, Mecca
c) Abu Bakr, Mecca
d) Abu Bakr, Madina
Answer: b) Prophet Mohammad, Mecca - Question: At what age did Prophet Mohammad declare himself the Prophet of Allah?
a) 30
b) 40
c) 50
d) 60
Answer: b) 40 - Question: Who revealed the Quran to Prophet Mohammad?
a) Abu Bakr
b) Angel Gabriel
c) Khalifa
d) Allah directly
Answer: b) Angel Gabriel - Question: Who became the first Khalifa after Prophet Mohammad’s death?
a) Abu Bakr
b) Umar
c) Ali
d) Uthman
Answer: a) Abu Bakr - Question: During which month must every Muslim fast from dawn to dusk?
a) Muharram
b) Ramzan
c) Eid
d) Shawwal
Answer: b) Ramzan - Question: What are the two main sects of Islam?
a) Sunni and Sufi
b) Shia and Sufi
c) Sunni and Shia
d) Sunni and Khalsa
Answer: c) Sunni and Shia - Question: Who was the first Guru of Sikhism?
a) Guru Gobind Singh
b) Guru Nanak
c) Guru Angad
d) Guru Teg Bahadur
Answer: b) Guru Nanak - Question: What did Guru Nanak establish to promote equality among people?
a) Sangat and Khalsa
b) Pangat and Khalsa
c) Sangat and Pangat
d) Khalsa and Gurbani
Answer: c) Sangat and Pangat - Question: What is the sacred scripture of Sikhs called?
a) Adi Granth
b) Quran
c) Gurbani
d) Ramayana
Answer: a) Adi Granth - Question: Who constructed the Gurudwara Harminder Sahib (Golden Temple)?
a) Guru Ram Das
b) Guru Arjun Dev
c) Guru Har Gobind
d) Guru Teg Bahadur
Answer: b) Guru Arjun Dev - Question: Who created the Khalsa Panth in 1699 CE?
a) Guru Nanak
b) Guru Angad
c) Guru Gobind Singh
d) Guru Teg Bahadur
Answer: c) Guru Gobind Singh - Question: Which of the following is NOT one of the five K’s of Sikhism?
a) Kesh
b) Kangha
c) Kara
d) Kalima
Answer: d) Kalima - Question: Where did the Bhakti Movement originate during the 7th and 8th centuries?
a) Bengal
b) Tamil region
c) Gujarat
d) Rajasthan
Answer: b) Tamil region - Question: Who took the Bhakti Movement to the north and worshipped Shri Ram?
a) Kabir
b) Ramananda
c) Chaitanya Mahaprabhu
d) Tulsidas
Answer: b) Ramananda - Question: Who were the disciples of Ramananda that opposed the caste system?
a) Kabir and Ravidas
b) Tulsidas and Surdas
c) Meera and Narsimha Mehta
d) Chaitanya and Surdas
Answer: a) Kabir and Ravidas - Question: Who was an ardent devotee of Krishna in Bengal and Odisha?
a) Meera
b) Surdas
c) Chaitanya Mahaprabhu
d) Narsimha Mehta
Answer: c) Chaitanya Mahaprabhu - Question: What inspired Sufism?
a) Vedas
b) Quran
c) Adi Granth
d) Bible
Answer: b) Quran - Question: Which Sufi order was established by Khwaja Muinnuddin Chisti?
a) Suhrawardi Order
b) Naqsh Bandi Order
c) Chisti Order
d) Qadiri Order
Answer: c) Chisti Order - Question: What is the first state a Sufi must pass through to achieve union with God?
a) Sabra
b) Tauba
c) Raza
d) Tawakkul
Answer: b) Tauba - Question: Which of the following is a famous Sufi saint?
a) Guru Nanak
b) Kabir
c) Nizamuddin Aulia
d) Tulsidas
Answer: c) Nizamuddin Aulia
True/False Questions and Answers
- Question: Prophet Mohammad was born in Madina in 570 CE.
Answer: False (He was born in Mecca.) - Question: The Quran was revealed to Prophet Mohammad by the angel Gabriel.
Answer: True - Question: Abu Bakr was the first Khalifa after Mohammad’s death in 632 CE.
Answer: True - Question: Every Muslim must pray five times daily, except on Fridays.
Answer: False (They must pray five times daily, and on Fridays, they pray in a mosque with others.) - Question: Muslims must fast during the holy month of Ramzan from dawn to dusk.
Answer: True - Question: The two main sects of Islam are Sunni and Sufi.
Answer: False (They are Sunni and Shia.) - Question: Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, was born in 1469 CE.
Answer: True - Question: Guru Nanak established Sangat and Pangat to promote equality.
Answer: True - Question: The sacred scripture of Sikhs is called the Quran.
Answer: False (It is the Adi Granth.) - Question: Guru Ram Das constructed the Gurudwara Harminder Sahib (Golden Temple).
Answer: False (It was Guru Arjun Dev.) - Question: Guru Gobind Singh created the Khalsa Panth in 1699 CE.
Answer: True - Question: The five K’s of Sikhism include Kesh, Kangha, Kara, Kaccha, and Kalima.
Answer: False (The fifth K is Kirpan, not Kalima.) - Question: The Bhakti Movement started in the Tamil region during the 7th and 8th centuries.
Answer: True - Question: Ramananda worshipped Krishna in the north as part of the Bhakti Movement.
Answer: False (He worshipped Shri Ram.) - Question: Kabir and Ravidas were disciples of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
Answer: False (They were disciples of Ramananda.) - Question: Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was a devotee of Krishna in Bengal and Odisha.
Answer: True - Question: Sufism was inspired by the Vedas and belief in one God.
Answer: False (It was inspired by the Quran.) - Question: The Chisti Order of Sufism was established by Khwaja Muinnuddin Chisti.
Answer: True - Question: Sufis believed in passing through ten states, starting with Tauba (repentance).
Answer: True - Question: Tulsidas was a famous Sufi saint.
Answer: False (He was a Bhakti saint; famous Sufi saints include Nizamuddin Aulia.)
Competency-Based Questions and Answers
- Question: A student learns that Prophet Mohammad founded Islam. How did his teachings unite the Arab empire?
Answer: Prophet Mohammad united the Arab empire by propagating faith in one God, Allah, and his prophethood, emphasizing equality and good deeds. His five principles—proclaiming Allah’s oneness, daily prayers, almsgiving, fasting during Ramzan, and Haj to Mecca—regulated Muslim life, fostering a shared faith. This unity under Islam ended tribal conflicts, creating a cohesive empire that followed the Quran’s guidance for a pious life. - Question: You read that Mohammad faced opposition in Mecca but was welcomed in Madina. How did this migration impact the spread of Islam?
Answer: Mohammad’s migration from Mecca to Madina in 622 CE, known as the Hijra, marked a turning point for Islam. In Madina, he was warmly welcomed, gaining followers and establishing a Muslim community. This migration allowed Islam to spread beyond Mecca, as Madina became a base for his teachings, uniting tribes under Islam and strengthening its political and religious influence across Arabia. - Question: A classmate notes that Guru Nanak founded Sikhism. How did his teachings promote equality and unity among people?
Answer: Guru Nanak, born in 1469 CE, founded Sikhism, promoting equality through Sangat (religious gatherings) and Pangat (eating together), where people of all castes and creeds participated without distinction. He preached selflessness, honest service, and belief in one God, equating Rama and Rahim. His emphasis on egolessness and denouncing worldly lust united diverse communities, fostering social harmony and spiritual unity among his followers. - Question: You learn that Guru Arjun Dev constructed the Golden Temple. How did this contribute to Sikh identity and community?
Answer: Guru Arjun Dev’s construction of the Gurudwara Harminder Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar provided Sikhs with a central place of worship, strengthening their religious identity. The temple, built in the holy tank dug by Guru Ram Das, became a symbol of equality and unity, as it welcomed all. It fostered community spirit, with the Akal Takht nearby reinforcing Sikh governance and spiritual authority. - Question: A teacher explains that Guru Gobind Singh created the Khalsa Panth. How did this impact the Sikh community’s role against Mughal oppression?
Answer: Guru Gobind Singh created the Khalsa Panth in 1699 CE, transforming Sikhs into a martial community with the five K’s as symbols of faith. This strengthened their resolve to fight Mughal oppression, as seen with Guru Teg Bahadur’s resistance. The Khalsa’s discipline and courage united Sikhs, enabling them to resist atrocities, protect their faith, and establish a distinct identity under Mughal rule. - Question: During a discussion, you hear that the Bhakti Movement started in the Tamil region. How did its principles challenge social norms of the time?
Answer: The Bhakti Movement, originating in the Tamil region during the 7th-8th centuries, challenged social norms by rejecting casteism, rituals, and idol worship. Alvars and Nayanars preached devotion to a formless God, promoting equality and love. Saints like Kabir and Ravidas opposed superstitions and narrow-mindedness, using local languages to unite people across castes, fostering a more inclusive society during the medieval period. - Question: You read that Ramananda took the Bhakti Movement to the north. How did his teachings influence social unity?
Answer: Ramananda, by taking the Bhakti Movement to the north, worshipped Shri Ram and emphasized devotion over rituals. His disciples, Kabir and Ravidas, opposed the caste system and superstitions, promoting Hindu-Muslim unity. By preaching in local languages and rejecting social hierarchies, Ramananda’s teachings fostered social unity, encouraging people of all backgrounds to connect through shared devotion, reducing communal and caste-based divisions. - Question: A news report highlights the Sufi belief in one God. How did Sufism’s practices promote interfaith harmony?
Answer: Sufism, inspired by the Quran, believed in one God and love for humanity as love for God. Practices like penance, fasting, and belief in equality, similar to Hinduism and Buddhism, bridged religious divides. Sufi saints like Nizamuddin Aulia lived in Khanqahs, welcoming all, while their ten states, like Tauba and Riza, emphasized universal spiritual values, fostering interfaith harmony across diverse communities in medieval India. - Question: You learn that Kabir preached Hindu-Muslim unity. How did his teachings reflect the goals of the Bhakti Movement?
Answer: Kabir, a disciple of Ramananda, preached Hindu-Muslim unity by rejecting caste, superstitions, and rituals, aligning with the Bhakti Movement’s goals of equality and devotion to a formless God. His Padas and Dohas emphasized love for the Supreme God, transcending religious divides. By promoting universal brotherhood and spiritual oneness, Kabir’s teachings encouraged social harmony, reflecting the movement’s aim to unite people through devotion. - Question: A teacher mentions the Sufi Chisti Order. How did its principles contribute to spiritual and social cohesion?
Answer: The Chisti Order, founded by Khwaja Muinnuddin Chisti, emphasized love for humanity, equality, and devotion to one God. Sufis lived in Khanqahs, practicing penance and fasting, welcoming people of all faiths. Their ten states, like Tauba and Riza, guided spiritual growth, while their inclusive teachings fostered social cohesion, uniting diverse communities in medieval India through shared values of piety and universal love.
High Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) Questions and Answers
- Question: Why might Prophet Mohammad’s emphasis on equality have been significant in uniting the Arab empire, and what does this suggest about the role of social justice in religious movements?
Answer: Mohammad’s emphasis on equality united the Arab empire by breaking tribal hierarchies, fostering a shared faith in Allah. His principles, like almsgiving and fasting, promoted social justice, ensuring support for the poor and communal harmony. This suggests social justice in religious movements is crucial, as it builds inclusive communities, reduces divisions, and strengthens collective identity, enabling broader acceptance and unity, as seen in early Islam. - Question: How did Mohammad’s migration to Madina shape the political and religious authority of Islam, and what does this indicate about the importance of a supportive community in spreading a religion?
Answer: Mohammad’s migration to Madina in 622 CE established a Muslim community, where he became both a religious and political leader, laying the foundation for Islam’s governance model under Khalifas. This indicates a supportive community is vital for spreading a religion, as it provides a safe base for growth, fosters loyalty, and enables the integration of diverse groups, amplifying the religion’s influence, as in Islam’s case. - Question: Why might Guru Nanak’s establishment of Sangat and Pangat have been revolutionary, and what does this reveal about the role of social practices in religious reform?
Answer: Guru Nanak’s Sangat and Pangat were revolutionary as they promoted equality by uniting people across castes and creeds in worship and communal meals, challenging medieval India’s rigid social hierarchy. This reveals social practices in religious reform can dismantle discriminatory norms, foster inclusivity, and create a sense of community, enabling broader acceptance of spiritual teachings, as seen in Sikhism’s emphasis on selfless service and unity. - Question: How did the construction of the Golden Temple and Akal Takht by Sikh Gurus reflect their vision for the community, and what does this suggest about the role of sacred spaces in religious identity?
Answer: The Golden Temple, built by Guru Arjun Dev, and Akal Takht, by Guru Har Gobind, reflected the Sikh vision of spiritual unity and temporal authority, welcoming all and reinforcing governance. This suggests sacred spaces in religious identity provide a unifying focal point, symbolize core values like equality, and strengthen community cohesion, enabling Sikhs to assert their distinct identity amidst Mughal challenges. - Question: Why might the creation of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh have strengthened Sikh resistance against Mughal oppression, and what does this indicate about the role of martial traditions in religious communities?
Answer: The Khalsa Panth, created in 1699 CE by Guru Gobind Singh, instilled martial discipline and the five K’s, uniting Sikhs to resist Mughal oppression, as seen with Guru Teg Bahadur’s efforts. This indicates martial traditions in religious communities can empower them to protect their faith, foster resilience, and assert autonomy, transforming spiritual groups into formidable forces against external threats, as with the Sikhs. - Question: How did the Bhakti Movement’s rejection of caste and rituals influence social structures, and what does this reveal about the impact of devotional movements on societal change?
Answer: The Bhakti Movement’s rejection of caste and rituals, led by saints like Kabir and Ravidas, promoted equality and devotion, weakening rigid social hierarchies. By using local languages, it made spirituality accessible, uniting diverse groups. This reveals devotional movements can drive societal change by challenging oppressive norms, fostering inclusivity, and empowering marginalized communities, as seen in the movement’s widespread impact across medieval India. - Question: Why might Kabir’s emphasis on Hindu-Muslim unity have been significant during the Bhakti Movement, and what does this suggest about the role of religious teachings in fostering communal harmony?
Answer: Kabir’s emphasis on Hindu-Muslim unity during the Bhakti Movement bridged religious divides in a time of conflict, promoting universal devotion to a formless God. His teachings, like those of Nanak, encouraged harmony by rejecting sectarianism. This suggests religious teachings can foster communal harmony by emphasizing shared spiritual values, reducing prejudice, and uniting diverse groups, as seen in Kabir’s lasting influence on social cohesion. - Question: How did Sufism’s practices, like penance and fasting, reflect its interfaith influences, and what does this indicate about the role of syncretism in spiritual traditions?
Answer: Sufism’s practices, like penance and fasting, mirrored Hindu and Buddhist traditions, while its belief in one God aligned with the Quran, reflecting interfaith influences. This syncretism, seen in Khanqahs welcoming all, fostered unity. It indicates syncretism in spiritual traditions encourages mutual understanding, bridges cultural gaps, and creates inclusive spaces, allowing diverse communities to connect through shared practices, as Sufism did in medieval India. - Question: Why might the Bhakti saints’ use of local languages have been effective in spreading their message, and what does this suggest about the role of accessibility in religious movements?
Answer: Bhakti saints like Tulsidas and Chaitanya used local languages to make their message of devotion accessible, resonating with common people across regions. This broke barriers of Sanskrit-based elitism, uniting diverse groups. It suggests accessibility in religious movements is key, as it ensures broader reach, fosters emotional connection, and empowers the masses to engage with spirituality, amplifying the movement’s impact, as seen in Bhakti’s spread. - Question: How did the Sufi Chisti Order’s emphasis on love for humanity contribute to its popularity, and what does this reveal about the appeal of universal values in religious movements?
Answer: The Chisti Order, led by Khwaja Muinnuddin Chisti, emphasized love for humanity as love for God, welcoming all in Khanqahs, which made it popular across faiths. Its focus on equality and piety resonated widely. This reveals universal values in religious movements, like love and inclusivity, appeal broadly, transcending religious boundaries, fostering unity, and attracting diverse followers, as seen in Sufism’s widespread influence.
Short Questions and Answers
- Question: Who founded Islam?
Answer: Prophet Mohammad. - Question: Where was Prophet Mohammad born?
Answer: Mecca. - Question: What is the holy book of Islam?
Answer: Quran. - Question: Who was the first Khalifa after Mohammad?
Answer: Abu Bakr. - Question: During which month do Muslims fast?
Answer: Ramzan. - Question: What are the two main sects of Islam?
Answer: Sunni and Shia. - Question: Who founded Sikhism?
Answer: Guru Nanak. - Question: What did Guru Nanak establish to promote equality?
Answer: Sangat and Pangat. - Question: What is the sacred scripture of Sikhs?
Answer: Adi Granth. - Question: Who constructed the Golden Temple?
Answer: Guru Arjun Dev. - Question: Who created the Khalsa Panth?
Answer: Guru Gobind Singh. - Question: Name one of the five K’s of Sikhism.
Answer: Kesh. - Question: Where did the Bhakti Movement originate?
Answer: Tamil region. - Question: Who took the Bhakti Movement to the north?
Answer: Ramananda. - Question: Who were Ramananda’s disciples that opposed caste?
Answer: Kabir and Ravidas. - Question: Who was a devotee of Krishna in Bengal?
Answer: Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. - Question: What inspired Sufism?
Answer: Quran. - Question: Who established the Chisti Order of Sufism?
Answer: Khwaja Muinnuddin Chisti. - Question: What is the first state in Sufism to achieve union with God?
Answer: Tauba. - Question: Name a famous Sufi saint.
Answer: Nizamuddin Aulia.
Long Questions and Answers (60-70 Words)
- Question: Describe how Prophet Mohammad united the Arab empire through Islam.
Answer: Prophet Mohammad united the Arab empire by preaching faith in one God, Allah, and his prophethood, emphasizing equality and good deeds. His five principles—proclaiming Allah’s oneness, daily prayers, almsgiving, fasting in Ramzan, and Haj—regulated Muslim life, fostering unity. By ending tribal conflicts and promoting social justice through the Quran, he created a cohesive empire, ensuring a shared faith that transcended regional divisions in Arabia. - Question: Explain the impact of Mohammad’s migration to Madina on Islam’s spread.
Answer: Mohammad’s migration to Madina in 622 CE, known as the Hijra, enabled Islam’s spread by providing a supportive base. Welcomed warmly, he established a Muslim community, uniting tribes under Islam. As both a religious and political leader, he strengthened Islam’s influence, making Madina the center for its growth. This migration allowed Islam to expand beyond Mecca, shaping its future political and religious authority. - Question: Discuss Guru Nanak’s teachings and their role in promoting equality.
Answer: Guru Nanak, born in 1469 CE, founded Sikhism, teaching selflessness, honest service, and belief in one God, equating Rama and Rahim. He established Sangat and Pangat, where all worshipped and ate together, regardless of caste or creed. By denouncing worldly lust and promoting egolessness, his teachings fostered equality, uniting diverse communities and challenging social hierarchies, creating a foundation for Sikhism’s emphasis on social harmony. - Question: Describe the significance of the Golden Temple and Akal Takht in Sikhism.
Answer: The Golden Temple, built by Guru Arjun Dev, became Sikhism’s central worship place, symbolizing equality by welcoming all. The Akal Takht, constructed by Guru Har Gobind, reinforced Sikh governance and spiritual authority. Located in Amritsar, these sacred spaces strengthened Sikh identity, fostering community unity and resilience against Mughal oppression, while embodying the principles of inclusivity and self-governance central to Sikhism’s growth. - Question: Explain the impact of the Khalsa Panth on the Sikh community.
Answer: Guru Gobind Singh created the Khalsa Panth in 1699 CE, uniting Sikhs with the five K’s as symbols of faith, instilling martial discipline. This transformed them into a formidable force against Mughal oppression, building on Guru Teg Bahadur’s resistance. The Khalsa strengthened Sikh identity, fostering courage and unity, enabling them to protect their faith and assert autonomy during a period of intense persecution. - Question: Discuss how the Bhakti Movement challenged social norms in medieval India.
Answer: The Bhakti Movement, starting in the Tamil region, challenged medieval India’s social norms by rejecting caste, rituals, and idol worship. Alvars, Nayanars, and saints like Kabir and Ravidas preached devotion to a formless God, promoting equality and love. Using local languages, they united diverse communities, dismantling social hierarchies and superstitions, fostering a more inclusive society through spiritual devotion and universal brotherhood. - Question: Explain Ramananda’s role in spreading the Bhakti Movement in the north.
Answer: Ramananda spread the Bhakti Movement in the north by worshipping Shri Ram and emphasizing devotion over rituals. His disciples, Kabir and Ravidas, opposed caste and superstitions, promoting Hindu-Muslim unity. By preaching in local languages, Ramananda made Bhakti accessible, uniting people across social divides. His teachings fostered social harmony, aligning with the movement’s goal of equality and spiritual oneness in medieval India. - Question: Describe how Sufism’s practices promoted interfaith harmony.
Answer: Sufism, inspired by the Quran, promoted interfaith harmony through practices like penance and fasting, similar to Hinduism and Buddhism, and its belief in equality. Sufi saints like Nizamuddin Aulia welcomed all in Khanqahs, emphasizing love for humanity as love for God. Their ten states, like Tauba and Riza, fostered universal spiritual values, uniting diverse communities in medieval India through shared practices and inclusivity. - Question: Discuss Kabir’s teachings and their alignment with the Bhakti Movement.
Answer: Kabir, a Bhakti saint, preached Hindu-Muslim unity, rejecting caste, superstitions, and rituals, aligning with the movement’s emphasis on equality and devotion. His Padas and Dohas praised a formless God, promoting universal brotherhood. By focusing on love and spiritual oneness, Kabir’s teachings encouraged social harmony, reflecting the Bhakti Movement’s goal of uniting people through devotion, transcending religious and social barriers in medieval India. - Question: Explain the Chisti Order’s contribution to spiritual and social cohesion.
Answer: The Chisti Order, founded by Khwaja Muinnuddin Chisti, emphasized love for humanity and equality, welcoming all in Khanqahs. Its practices, like penance and fasting, and the ten states, including Tauba and Riza, guided spiritual growth while fostering unity. By promoting universal values, the order bridged religious divides, enhancing social cohesion and making Sufism a unifying spiritual force in medieval India across diverse communities.