Question

The first Muslim ruler to formulate the theory of Kingship similar to the theory of divine right of Kings was __.
A) Qutbuddin Aibak
B) Alauddin Khilji
C) Iltutmish
D) Balban

Answer 1

Hint: He ruled from 1266 to 1287 and was the successor of Nasuruddin Mahmud. He was one of the 40 Turkish slaves and was the ninth ruler of the Mamluk Dynasty.

Complete answer:
The Theory of Kingship was formulated by Ghiyas-ud-din-Balban. He was the ninth sultan of the Mamluk Dynasty and he ruled from 1266 to 1287. Before becoming a sultan, Balban was a slave bought by Iltutmish who is considered as the effective founder of the Delhi Sultanate.

Balban’s Theory of Kingship led to the adoption of the policy of Blood and Iron. It was stern, harsh and violent policy adopted to suppress the internal revolts and to meet with the challenges posed by foreign invaders. Balban believed that the only way to face these internal and external dangers was by increasing the power and prestige of the King.

It was similar to the Theory of Divine Rights of the King, a theory which has existed since the Ancient Roman Empires of the 1st Century. It was similar because, both these theories, the King was believed to be a representation of God on earth and Kingship was a divine institution. Balban declared this and made his noble believe that he was the King through the mercy of God.

Thus, the correct answer is Option (D) Balban.

Note:
Other major principles of the Theory of Kingship include;
-Royal descent – stating that only the prerogative of ancient royal families was to rule and exercise power.
-King as despot – meaning that the superhuman awe of the King was what ensured peoples obedience.
-Tripartite relationship – emphasizing the connection between the Sultan and God, Sultan and the people, and the God and the people.