Word Meaning
ख़िरक़ा
khirqa
Meaning
A patched robe worn by Sufis or ascetics; a dervish's cloak.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Persian and Urdu poetry, a 'khirqa' refers to the traditional patched frock or mantle of a Sufi mendicant, symbolizing asceticism and detachment from worldly desires. In the quoted verse, it signifies the outward religious attire and self-righteous piety of the ascetic (zahid), which has hypocritically been pawned or pledged for wine.
Etymology
Arabic (خرقة, khirqah), meaning a rag, torn scrap, or patched cloth.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, the khirqa frequently represents false piety or ascetic hypocrisy and is commonly juxtaposed with the tavern, where it is pawned for a cup of wine.
Examples
He pledged his patched khirqa at the door of the tavern.
Beneath the pious khirqa, the mystic concealed his true passion.