Word Meaning
इस्तिक़्बाल
istiqbāl
Meaning
Reception, welcoming, or stepping forward to greet an arrival.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'istiqbal' denotes the act of advancing to greet or welcome a visitor, honored guest, or the approaching beloved. In this couplet, Ghalib metaphorically envisions the scratching sound of the pen as a scattered offering cast to welcome the approaching coquetry (naz) of the beloved. It carries a strong sense of ceremonial honor, anticipation, and devotion.
Etymology
Arabic verbal noun (Form X) from the root q-b-l (ق-ب-ل), literally meaning 'seeking to face' or 'going forward to meet'.
Usage
Commonly employed in ghazals to depict the lover's ceremonial or ecstatic rush to greet the arrival of the beloved, spring, or even death.
Examples
Stepping forward in warm reception of the beloved.
Welcoming the arrival of the spring breeze in the garden.