Word Meaning
क़ालिब
qaalib
Meaning
A mold, cast, frame, or the physical body as vessel for the soul.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'qalib' signifies a mold, outer frame, or the mortal body in contrast to the soul ('ruh'). In this couplet, it represents the architectural mold or structural framework being engulfed by destruction, personified as stepping into an embrace of farewell. It emphasizes physical vulnerability and the vanity of material construction.
Etymology
Arabic (قالب, qālib), meaning mold or model; historically traced back to Ancient Greek 'kalopous' (shoemaker's last).
Usage
Frequently contrasted with 'rūh' (spirit) to signify the mortal shell, or used architecturally to represent the empty form of existence.
Examples
The wandering soul took flight from the earthen mold.
Form and mold dissolved in the flood of annihilation.