History of the Qaraunah Turks in India c12.23.1

c12.23.1

Though theologians and divines were considered as oracles of the law by Muhammadan rulers, a great change came over the position of the *‘Ulama* towards the close of the thirteenth century. The insecurity of the state caused by the fear of internal revolts and repeated Mughal raids tended to increase the authority of the crown. The temporal power gradually eclipsed the ecclesiastical and under *‘Ala-al-Din Khilji* the state claimed omnipotence and the claim was forcibly expressed by him. *‘Ala-al-Din* symbolised the unity of his people and the position which he occupied was the result of the unprecedented achievements of the monarchy. The memorable words which he spoke to Qazi Mughis,—"I do not know whether this is lawful or unlawful: whatever I think to be for the good of the state, or suitable for the emergency, that I decree"—succinctly sum up the new political doctrine. The first two Tughluqs were strong men who refused to follow in every thing the doctors of the divine law. Muhammad was a man of great ability well-versed in philosophy and dialectics and his masterful nature resented all dictation and encroachment upon his authority. He seldom consulted the *‘Ulama* and never followed their advice.