8 
The blame of corrupting Akber’s theology is thrown by Mussul- 
man writers on Abul Fazl and his learned, and scarcely less 
celebrated, brother Feizi. These men were sons of a learned man 
named Mobarik, who had read the philosophical works of the 
ancients. Feizi was the first Mussulman who applied himself to a 
diligent study of Hindoo literature and science. Under the aid 
and direction of the Emperor, he conducted a systematic inquiry 
into every branch of the knowledge of the Brahmins, and translated, 
or superintended the translation, of all the standard Sanscrit works. 
Akber’s acquisitions of this nature were not confined to Sanscrit. 
He prevailed on a Christian priest, whom Abul Fazl calls Padre 
Farabatun, and describes as learned in science and history, to 
come from Goa, and undertake the education of a few youths 
destined to be employed in translating the productions of Greek 
literature into Persian. Feizi himself was destined to make a 
correct version of the Evangelists. Akber’s endeavour was, in 
his own words, ‘‘that every one was to be educated according to 
his circumstances and particular views in life.” 
Along with Feizi and Abul Fazl, there were many other learned 
men of all religions about the Court; and it was the delight of 
Akber to assemble them, and sit for whole nights assisting at their 
philosophical discussions. His regular meetings were on Fridays; 
but he often sent for single Brahmins or Mahometan Sufis on 
other occasions, and entered into long enquiries regarding the 
tenets of their different schools. An account of a real debate of 
this kind is given in the Akburnamek. It was carried on before 
an assembly of the learned of all religions, between Padre Reclif, 
i.e. the Portuguese missionary Rodolpho Aquiviva, and a body 
of Mahometan Mullahs: a decided advantage both in temper and 
argument, is given to the Christian. It was concluded by Akber's 
reproving the Mullahs for their violence, and expressing his own 
opinion, that God could only be adequately worshipped by following ~ 
reason, and not yielding implicit faith to any alleged revelation. 
It is probable that the Portuguese Jesuits entertained hope of 
converting Akber, as it is related that he adored the images ot 
Jesus Christ and the Virgin with awe and veneration. Mr. Elphin- 
