Word Meaning
इस्तिक़बाल
istiqbaal
Meaning
Welcome; reception; the act of going out to greet someone.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'istiqbaal' denotes a ceremonial reception, welcoming, or moving forward to greet an arriving beloved or esteemed guest. In this couplet, it represents the eager reception offered by the lover's eyes to welcome the luminous beloved, imagined as a star-scattering moon. It captures both devotion and aesthetic celebration.
Etymology
Arabic root q-b-l (ق-ب-ل), verbal noun of form X (istiqbāl), signifying facing forward or advancing to meet.
Usage
Commonly employed in the ghazal to convey the eagerness and reverence with which the lover's senses prepare for the beloved's arrival.
Examples
Eyes paved the way to welcome the arrival of the beloved.
A lavish reception was prepared in the chamber of mirrors.