UNIT 1: Religion and Art in the Mughal Empire

Orthodox

Traditional interpretation.

Heterodox

Ideas or beliefs that deviate from orthodox standards.

Unorthodox

Non-traditional interpretation.

Lingua franca

A language adopted as a common language between speakers whose native languages are different.

Baraka

An Arabic word meaning 'blessing' and refers to a spiritual power that originates with God.

Pluralism

A worldview, a political philosophy, and a way of living in a diverse society.

Jizyah

Tax paid to Muslim rulers by non-Muslim populations.

Syncretic

Combination of various religions and beliefs/practices.

Pantheism

Doctrine identifying God with the universe or as a manifestation of God.

Ghazal

A form of amatory poem or ode, originating in Arabic poetry.

Sunni

The largest branch of Islam, following the teachings of the Quran and the Prophet Muhammad.

Shia

The second largest branch of Islam, mainly followed in Iran, rejecting the first three Sunni caliphs.

Isma’ili

A member of a branch of Shiite Muslims who believe Ismail should have become the seventh Imam.

Consort

The partner/husband/wife of a god or goddess.

Avatar

Incarnation of a deity in human (or animal) form in the physical world.

Mausoleum

A building housing a tomb.

Minaret

A tall slender tower, typically part of a mosque, with a balcony from which a muezzin calls Muslims to prayer.