PHILOSOPHICAL DIALOGUES: JALALUDIN MUHAMMAD AKBAR (D. 1605)’S UNIVERSALISM AND SHEIKH AHMAD SIRHINDI (D. 1624)’S SUFI REFORMATION

Abstract

This article examines the philosophical and religious debate between the idea of universalism of Emperor Jalaludin Muhammad Akbar (d.1605) and the Sufi reformation of Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi (d.1624). Akbar, famed for his Sulh-I-Kul (universal peace) policy, aimed to merge many religious traditions into a harmonious framework while encouraging tolerance and inclusivity. In contrast, Sirhindi, a notable Sufi scholar, was fiercely opposed to Akbar's theological reforms, pushing for the restoration of orthodox Islamic norms and inventing the notion of Wahdat al-Shuhud as a counter to Wahdat al-Wajud. His theories emphasized the difference between the creator and the creature while reaffirming Sharia's primacy in Sufi philosophy. This research emphasizes the intellectual and theological conflicts that molded Mughal-era religious thought by examining their opposing ideologies. Using historical research and comparative techniques, the discussion delves into the broader ramifications of religious syncretism and reform throughout South Asian history.