Akbar

:This article is about an Emperor. For the Fez wearing cartoon character, see Life in Hell.

Religion

At the time of Akbar's rule, the Mughal Empire included both Hindus and Muslims. Profound differences separate the Islamic and Hindu faith; Muslims are allowed to eat beef, while for those of the Hindu religion it is forbidden to harm cows because they are worshipped as sacred. Hindus are allowed to drink alcoholic beverages (e.g., wine), a practice which is forbidden by Islam. During the period of the Mughal Empire, the majority of the Indian population was Hindu, but the rulers of the empire were almost exclusively Muslim. It was in this polarized religious arena that Akbar commenced his rule.

Related Topics:
Hindu - Muslims - Wine

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Despite all of this, Akbar fostered tolerance for all religions. He tried to reconcile the differences of both religions by creating a new faith called the Din-i-Ilahi, which incorporated both Islam and Hinduism. He also repealed the jizya tax that had been levied on non-Muslims in the empire. Akbar also married several Hindu princesses, though many consider that to be politically motivated rather than a genuine attempt at religious reconciliation.

Related Topics:
Din-i-Ilahi - Jizya

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~