Which historical development most directly supports al Beruni's interpretation of earlier Indian culture?

Al-Biruni, a Persian scholar who traveled to India in the early 11th century, is known for his detailed observations and writings on Indian society, religion, and culture. His interpretation of earlier Indian culture was significantly influenced by his interactions with Muslim communities that had settled in South Asia. These communities contributed to the cultural exchange between Islam and Hinduism, allowing for a blending of ideas and practices. Al-Biruni's perspective was shaped by this multicultural environment, where he noted the interactions and contrasts between Islam and the established traditions of Indian society.

The presence of Muslims in South Asia provided a context in which al-Biruni could compare and analyze Indian customs, beliefs, and systems of thought with those of Islamic culture. His work emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural and intellectual exchanges that occurred during this period, highlighting how these interactions enriched his interpretation of Indian traditions.

Other developments, while significant in their own right, do not directly support al-Biruni’s interpretations as closely as the influence of Muslim communities. The establishment of the caste system, the spread of Buddhism, and the expansion of trade routes all contributed to the historical context of India but were not as pivotal in shaping al-Biruni's specific observations and interpretations of Indian culture in