In the medieval period, the term 'ulema' referred to:

The term "ulema" (singular "alim") refers to the scholars of Islamic learning, especially theologians and jurists, who were experts in the Quran, the traditions of the Prophet and Islamic law (Sharia).

Meaning of the term:

• "Alim" means "a learned person" or "one who has knowledge" (ilm, knowledge).
• "Ulema" is the plural form.

Role of the ulema in the Delhi Sultanate:

• They were expected to guide the rulers to govern according to the Sharia.
• They served as qazis (judges), muftis (experts who gave legal opinions, called fatwas), teachers, and preachers.
• They were in charge of religious and educational institutions, such as mosques and madrasas.
• They received grants of land and allowances from the state.
• They often influenced state policy, especially on religious matters.

Relations with the Sultans:

Some Sultans, such as Iltutmish and Firoz Shah Tughlaq, gave great importance to the ulema and followed their advice.

Others, such as Alauddin Khalji and Muhammad bin Tughlaq, did not allow them to interfere in matters of state; Alauddin famously said that he did whatever he thought was good for the state, whether or not it was approved by the Sharia.

NCERT on the ulema:

• NCERT explains that the ulema were scholars of Islamic studies, who were expected to ensure that rulers governed according to the Sharia.
• It also notes that the Sufis were different from the ulema: the Sufis rejected outward religiosity and emphasised love and devotion to God, while the ulema emphasised the observance of rituals and laws.

Under the Mughals:

• The ulema were also important under the Mughals.
• Akbar's "Mahzar" (declaration) of 1579 reduced the authority of the ulema in religious matters.
• Aurangzeb compiled the "Fatawa-i-Alamgiri" with the help of the ulema.

Related terms:

• "Qazi": a judge.
• "Mufti": a jurist who gives legal opinions.
• "Sadr": the head of religious affairs.
• "Sheikh" or "Pir": a Sufi master.

Why not the other options?

• ✗Military commanders, revenue collectors and Sufi mystics had different names and roles.