Meaning of the term Muftis used during Delhi Sultanate
The term “Mufti” refers to a legal scholar who is qualified to issue legal opinions (fatwas) in Islamic law. During the Delhi Sultanate period in medieval India, the Muftis played an important role in the administration of justice and the interpretation of Islamic law.
The Muftis were appointed by the Sultan or his provincial governors, and they were responsible for advising the judges on legal matters and issuing fatwas on various issues related to Islamic law. They were also responsible for interpreting the Shariah (Islamic law) and applying it to the specific circumstances of the cases that came before them.
The Muftis were highly respected and influential figures in the society, and their opinions carried great weight in legal proceedings. They were often consulted by the Sultan and his officials on matters related to the administration of justice, and their opinions were considered to be authoritative and binding.
In addition to their role in the administration of justice, the Muftis also played an important role in the religious and social life of the community. They were often called upon to deliver sermons and lectures on religious topics, and they provided guidance and advice to the common people on matters related to Islamic law and ethics.
Overall, the Muftis played a crucial role in the administration of justice and the interpretation of Islamic law during the Delhi Sultanate period. They were respected and influential figures in the society, and their opinions carried great weight in legal proceedings and religious matters.