Word Meaning
नाख़ुदा
nākhudā
Meaning
Ship captain or boatman; also interpreted as godless or masterless.
Detailed Meaning
Primarily denoting a ship's captain or helmsman (from Persian 'nāv' + 'khudā'), 'nākhudā' is a classic poetic trope representing a guide through treacherous waters. Poets frequently pun on its literal breakdown into 'nā-' (without) and 'khudā' (God), as seen in this couplet where it couples with 'tars' to describe a ruthless, godless beloved.
Etymology
Persian: compound of 'nāv' (ship/boat) and 'khudā' (master/ruler); often punned with 'nā-' (un-/not) + 'khudā' (God).
Usage
In ghazal poetry, the 'nākhudā' is frequently set against reliance on the divine, symbolizing fragile worldly rescue.
Examples
Do not trust the boatman when the tempest is within.
My ship drowned right before the eyes of the helmsman.