From the Rishi's vacant eyes, the Brahmin's spell has broken; if this is not the case, then the magic is baseless.

This powerful couplet is a profound philosophical challenge to mere ritualism. Allama Iqbal suggests that true spiritual realization cannot be achieved merely through external ceremonies or the magic of texts. If the deep wisdom of the sages cannot break the illusion (tilism) of the Brahman, then the spoken word or declaration of faith ('Kalima') holds no inherent truth or foundation. It demands introspection and genuine understanding!