Ibn Batuta went to China as the envoy of which one of the following Delhi Sultans?
Muhammad bin Tughluq
Understanding Ibn Batuta and the Delhi Sultanate
The question asks about the specific Delhi Sultan who appointed Ibn Batuta as his envoy to China. To answer this, we need to recall the historical context of Ibn Batuta's visit to India and his relationship with the rulers of the Delhi Sultanate.
Ibn Batuta's Time in India
Ibn Batuta, the famous Moroccan traveler and scholar, arrived in India in 1333 CE during the reign of Sultan Muhammad bin Tughluq. He was highly impressed by Sultan Muhammad bin Tughluq's generosity and learning and stayed in India for several years.
During his stay, Ibn Batuta held a significant position in the Sultan's court. He was appointed as the Qazi (judge) of Delhi by Sultan Muhammad bin Tughluq. He served in this capacity for approximately seven years.
The Diplomatic Mission to China
After serving as Qazi, Ibn Batuta was entrusted by Sultan Muhammad bin Tughluq with a crucial diplomatic mission. The Sultan decided to send an embassy to the Yuan dynasty in China. The purpose was reportedly to escort Chinese envoys back to China and carry gifts from the Sultan.
Sultan Muhammad bin Tughluq chose Ibn Batuta to lead this delegation. This demonstrates the significant trust the Sultan placed in him, despite the challenges and controversies surrounding Muhammad bin Tughluq's rule.
Analyzing the Options
Let's consider the other options provided:
- Alauddin Khilji: Ruled the Delhi Sultanate before Muhammad bin Tughluq. Ibn Batuta's arrival in India postdates Alauddin Khilji's reign.
- Iltutmish: Ruled much earlier, establishing the Mamluk dynasty's firm grip on the Delhi Sultanate. Ibn Batuta was not in India during Iltutmish's time.
- Firoz Shah Tughluq: Succeeded Muhammad bin Tughluq. Ibn Batuta had already departed from India on the mission to China before Firoz Shah Tughluq ascended the throne.
Based on historical records of Ibn Batuta's journey and service in India, it is clear that he served under and was sent on a mission to China by Sultan Muhammad bin Tughluq.
Conclusion
The Delhi Sultan who sent Ibn Batuta as an envoy to China was Muhammad bin Tughluq.
| Sultan | Period of Rule | Relation with Ibn Batuta |
|---|---|---|
| Alauddin Khilji | 1296-1316 CE | Did not overlap with Ibn Batuta's visit |
| Muhammad bin Tughluq | 1324-1351 CE | Ibn Batuta served as Qazi, sent as envoy to China |
| Iltutmish | 1211-1236 CE | Did not overlap with Ibn Batuta's visit |
| Firoz Shah Tughluq | 1351-1388 CE | Ibn Batuta had left India before his reign |
Revision Table: Ibn Batuta and Delhi Sultans
| Key Figure | Associated Sultan | Event |
|---|---|---|
| Ibn Batuta | Muhammad bin Tughluq | Arrival in India (1333 CE) |
| Ibn Batuta | Muhammad bin Tughluq | Appointment as Qazi of Delhi |
| Ibn Batuta | Muhammad bin Tughluq | Sent as envoy to China |
Additional Information: Ibn Batuta's Travels
Ibn Batuta is renowned for his extensive travels across vast parts of the Islamic world and beyond, covering North Africa, the Horn of Africa, West Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, and China. His journeys lasted for nearly 30 years.
His famous account of his travels, titled Rihla (meaning "The Journey"), provides invaluable insights into the political, social, economic, and cultural conditions of the regions he visited, including the Delhi Sultanate under Muhammad bin Tughluq. The Rihla is a primary historical source for the history of 14th-century India and other parts of the world.
Muhammad bin Tughluq was known for his ambitious projects and sometimes controversial decisions. His reign saw administrative experiments, including shifting the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad and introducing token currency, which met with mixed results. Despite these challenges, his court attracted scholars, travelers, and administrators from different parts of the world, like Ibn Batuta.
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