With reference to the religious history of medieval India, the Sufi mystics were known to pursue which of the following practices? 1. Meditation and control of breath 2. Severe ascetic exercises in a lonely place 3. Recitation of holy songs to arouse a state of ecstasy in their audience Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- A1 and 2 only
- B2 and 3 only
- C3 only
- D1, 2 and 3Correct
Explanation
The correct answer is D because Sufism in medieval India was a mystical movement that emphasized a personal and intense connection with God through various spiritual disciplines.
Regarding the first point, Sufis practiced Pranayama or breath control, often influenced by Yogic traditions, to improve concentration during meditation.
Regarding the second point, many Sufi saints lived in isolation or in Khanqahs where they performed rigorous physical and spiritual penance, known as Mujahida, to detach themselves from worldly desires.
Regarding the third point, the practice of Sama, which involved singing devotional songs or Qawwalis, was a central element of Sufism used to induce a state of divine ecstasy and spiritual intoxication in the listeners.
Since all three practices were integral to the Sufi way of life, option D is the correct choice.

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