Word Meaning
उलफ़त
ulfat
Meaning
Affection, love, attachment, or intimate friendship.
Detailed Meaning
'Ulfat' denotes tender affection, attachment, and love. In the cited couplet, it represents the ideal state and code of true love, wherein bewailing one's helplessness is viewed as a deficiency or blemish. Classical poetry frequently contrasts this pure emotional bond with the trials that the lover must bear without complaint.
Etymology
Arabic (أُلْفَة, 'ulfah'), derived from the root '-l-f, meaning intimacy, familiarity, or affection.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, 'ulfat' often evokes a gentle, warm, and loyal affection, serving as a softer nuance compared to the consuming passion of 'ishq'.
Examples
The customs of love are not easily upheld by all.
A lamp of quiet affection burned steadily within the heart.