In the church, there are kebabs and wine of the garden; in the mosque, what is there, besides sermons and books?

This powerful couplet by Allama Iqbal presents a profound socio-religious commentary. The poet contrasts the apparent pleasures available in the world—like feasts and wine—with the perceived austerity of religious institutions. He questions the true substance of the mosque, suggesting that even within places of worship, the focus is limited to sermons and books. It forces the listener to reflect on the balance between worldly desires and spiritual devotion, asking what truly constitutes faith.