Qaba-e-ilm O Hunar Lutf-e-khas Hai Varna / Tiri Nigah Mein Thi Meri — Allama Iqbal

क़बा-ए-इल्म ओ हुनर लुत्फ़-ए-ख़ास है वर्ना तिरी निगाह में थी मेरी ना-ख़ुश अंदामी
— Allama Iqbal

Meaning

The cloak of knowledge and art is a special grace, otherwise, in your gaze, my form was displeasing.

Explanation

This couplet by Allama Iqbal is a profound meditation on self-worth. The poet suggests that mere physical beauty or charm is insufficient. He argues that the true grace—the 'cloak'—that saves him from rejection is the gift of knowledge and skill. If he lacked this intellectual depth, his flawed appearance would have been enough for the beloved's gaze to turn away. It speaks volumes about the power of intellect over superficiality.

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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