Word Meaning
इख़्लास
ikhlās
Meaning
Sincerity, purity of heart, selfless devotion, or genuine affection.
Detailed Meaning
In Urdu poetry and Islamic spirituality, ikhlas signifies absolute purity of intent, entirely free from ostentation or hypocrisy (riya). In the provided couplet, it underscores that physical acts of ritual worship like prayer and prostration are futile without true inner devotion. Beyond religion, it denotes unalloyed loyalty and deep, unselfish love in human relationships.
Etymology
Arabic (إخلاص), verbal noun from the root kh-l-s (خ-ل-ص), meaning to be pure, unadulterated, or purified.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, ikhlas is frequently contrasted with outward ritualism (zuhd) and hypocrisy (riya), serving as the ultimate test of genuine love and spiritual integrity.
Examples
The era of pure love and true sincerity has passed.
Only those prayers are accepted that come with complete sincerity.