Question

What were the "barriers" discussed by Al-Biruni that obstructed him in understanding India?

(i) Problems of Language.

(ii) Difference in religious beliefs and practices.

(iii) Self-absorption and insularity of the local population.

Options

• i and iii

• ii and iii

• i, ii, iii

• i and ii

Answer 1

i, ii, iii

Explanation:

The following were the roadblocks to his comprehension of India:

1. Problems of Language - He claimed that Sanskrit was so dissimilar to Arabic and Persian that ideas and concepts could not be easily conveyed from one to the other.
2. Difference in religious beliefs and practices - He was Muslim, and his religious beliefs and practices differed significantly from those of India.
3. Self-absorption and insularity of the local population - According to him, the third hurdle was the Indians' isolation policy.