Din-i-Ilahi or the Divine Faith, was a new religion promulgated by
Akbar in 1851. It was an attempt to evolve a national religion, agreeable to both Hindus and Muslims. Din-i-Ilahi was essentially an ethical system, prohibiting such sins as lust, sensuality, slander and pride, enjoining the virtues of piety, prudence, abstinence and kindness. Akbar was the spiritual guide of the religion and Abul Fazl, the court historian and closest associate of the emperor, was its high priest. It contained the best principles of several religions like Christianity, Islam,
Hinduism, Jainism,
Buddhism and Zoroastrianism. The religion encouraged personal loyalty to Akbar. Its followers were asked to sacrifice their lives, property and honor for the sake of the emperor.
Birbal was the only Hindu to join the new faith. The religion disappeared with Akbar.
