Secularism in a Historical Form

This chapter describes the development of syncretistic Islam in mediaeval Bengal up to the 19th century. In the development of syncretism, it shows how Islam in Bengal, rather than being imported unchanged from the Middle East, spread organically, combining with indigenous and non-Islamic practices and beliefs in the region. In Bengal, Islam spread via a combination of political, cultural, and agrarian means via Sufi saints or, in the Bengali language, pirs (spiritual guides). Conversion from other religious or non-religious practices to Islam had considerable influence on the cultural trend of Bengal. Whether conversion was forced, willing, or the result of immigration, the cultural integration of diverse religious beliefs and practices was fundamental to the process. The Bengali language, local music, and literature played an important role in the development of the unique Bengali syncretistic Islamic tradition.