The Popular Practice of Islam

New Strands in Fabric Islamic Traditions

The regions within the Indian subcontinent were not isolated from each other, and there was continuous contact with lands beyond the seas and mountains for many centuries. Arab merchants, for example, regularly visited ports along the western coast during the first millennium CE. Similarly, people from Central Asia settled in the northwestern parts of the subcontinent during the same period. With the arrival of Islam in the seventh century, these regions became integrated into what is commonly referred to as the Islamic world....

Faiths of Rulers and Subjects

Arab General Muhammad Qasim conquered Sind in 711, making it part of the Caliph’s domain. Later, around the thirteenth century, the Turks and Afghans established the Delhi Sultanate, followed by Sultanates in other parts of the subcontinent. Islam became the recognized religion of rulers in many areas. This trend continued with the Mughal Empire in the sixteenth century and regional states in the eighteenth century. Muslim rulers were supposed to follow the guidance of the ulama to rule according to the shari’a, but this was complicated in a region with non-Muslim populations....

The Popular Practice of Islam

After the arrival of Islam, its influence spread widely across different social groups in the subcontinent. People from various backgrounds, including peasants, artisans, warriors, and merchants, embraced Islam and adhered to its fundamental principles known as the five “pillars” of faith. These pillars include belief in one God, praying five times a day, giving alms, fasting during Ramadan, and performing the pilgrimage to Mecca....

Names for Communities

The terms “Hindu” and “Muslim” weren’t commonly used during a significant period in Indian history. Instead, people were often identified based on their regional origin. For example, Turkish rulers were called Turushka, Tajik people were from Tajikistan, and Parashika referred to those from Persia. Sometimes, terms for other groups, like Shakas and Yavanas, were applied to new migrants like Turks and Afghans. A more general term used for these migrant communities was “mlechchha,” indicating they didn’t adhere to caste norms and spoke non-Sanskrit languages. While these terms might have had negative meanings, they didn’t necessarily imply a distinct religious identity of Muslims in contrast to Hindus. Additionally, the term “Hindu” was used in various contexts beyond its religious meaning....

Conclusion

Over time, Islamic practices have evolved and adapted, integrating with local customs and beliefs. This dynamic interaction has created a unique tapestry of religious expression across the country. The emergence of Sufism as a path of devotion and austerity has been central to the Islamic tradition in India. Sufi practices, such as Khanqahs and Silsilas, have played a major role in shaping religious life....

New Strands in the Fabric : Islamic Traditions- FAQs

What is the significance of Islamic traditions in India?...