ख़ीरा न कर सका मुझे जल्वा-ए-दानिश-ए-फ़रंग सुर्मा है मेरी आँख का ख़ाक-ए-मदीना-ओ-नजफ़
— Allama Iqbal
Meaning

I could not withstand the splendor of foreign wisdom; my eyes hold the kohl of Medina and Najaf.

Explanation

This couplet is a powerful declaration of identity and spiritual resilience. The poet suggests that the dazzling display of foreign knowledge or worldly wisdom ('Jalwa-e-Danish-e-Farang') could not shake the core of his being. Why? Because the 'kohl' (surma) in his eyes is not just makeup; it is the sacred dust of Medina and Najaf—two of Islam's most revered holy sites. It implies that his spiritual roots are deeper and more potent than any worldly illusion.

Interpretation note: meanings and explanations may be AI-assisted and should not replace a primary text or scholarly edition. See the editorial policy.

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