MAHMUD OF GHAZNI'S RELATION WITH THE SUFIS

Mahmud of Ghazni's rule witnessed the formation of fundamental Sunni principles. Mahmud of Ghazni ignored the activities related to kalam in accordance with the religious policy, and he rather preferred to protect sufist waves relied on modesty and tolerance. Mahmud of Ghazni with a well-religious and mystical education valued the Sunni scholars and sufists in terms of the sultanate, and created madrasas by establishing foundations on behalf of them. He did not hesitate to fight against those who were against his rule and to stand against all mythical beliefs and mystical insights contrary to his own politics. A lot of data related to Mahmud of Ghazni's religious education, sufist stance and relations with sufists can be found in co-eval pieces such as tabakat, teracim and menakibnames. Some narratives cite him a sufi as compassionate, and wise as told in the stories. This study aims at investigating his religious education and viewpoint in regard to narratives and his relations with the sufis.