Word Meaning
अद्ल
'adl
Meaning
Justice, equity, righteousness, or fairness.
Detailed Meaning
In classical poetic thought, 'adl represents absolute justice, fairness, and the moral order of the cosmos. In this couplet, it forms part of the construct 'mizaan-e-adl' (the balance or scales of divine justice), against which deeds are strictly weighed on the Day of Reckoning. The poet laments that his heedlessness and spiritual slumber cannot withstand such unyielding scrutiny without divine grace.
Etymology
Arabic root 'ʿ-d-l' (ع-د-ل), conveying the sense of acting justly, equalizing, or rectifying.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, 'adl (strict justice) is frequently contrasted with 'rahm' (mercy) and 'lutf' (grace), as the lover or sinner fears justice and seeks compassion.
Examples
The balance of divine justice does not overlook a particle.
The sinner trembles before absolute justice, praying instead for mercy.