Which of the following is true about the early sufis?

Answer & explanation

Correct answer: option 4

The correct answer is Option (4) → All of the above

Option (1) Sufis turned to asceticism and mysticism in protest against the growing materialism of the Caliphate. — Incorrect. Correct statement. In the early centuries of Islam, sufis turned to asceticism and mysticism to protest against the growing materialism of the Caliphate. On its own it is only one of the correct points, so it is not the answer.

Option (2) Sufis were critical of the dogmatic definitions and scholastic methods of interpreting the Qur'an and sunna adopted by theologians. — Incorrect. Correct statement. Sufis rejected the dogmatic definitions and scholastic methods that theologians used to interpret the Qur'an and sunna. On its own it is only one of the correct points, so it is not the answer.

Option (3) Sufis laid emphasis on seeking salvation through intense devotion and love for God by following His commands. — Incorrect. Correct statement. Sufis sought salvation through intense devotion and love for God, following His commands and the example of the Prophet. On its own it is only one of the correct points, so it is not the answer.

NCERT (2026-27): “6. The Growth of Sufism
In the early centuries of Islam a group of religiousminded people called sufis turned to asceticism and mysticism in protest against the growing materialism of the Caliphate as a religious and political institution. They were critical of the dogmatic definitions and scholastic methods of interpreting the Qur’an and sunna (traditions of the Prophet) adopted by theologians. Instead, they laid emphasis on seeking salvation through intense devotion and love for God by following His commands, and by following the example of the Prophet Muhammad whom they regarded as a perfect human being. The sufis thus sought an interpretation of the Qur’an on the basis of their personal experience.”