Word Meaning
फ़क़ीह
faqīh
hinoun
Meaning
An Islamic jurist, theologian, or scholar of religious law.
Detailed Meaning
In Islamic tradition, a faqīh is an expert in jurisprudence (fiqh) and legal theory. In Urdu poetry, particularly in Iqbal, the figure is often invoked as a symbol of dry dogmatism and rigid formalism devoid of spiritual passion. In this couplet, it represents narrow scholastic authority whose pessimistic outlook impedes creative or spiritual progression.
Etymology
Arabic, derived from the triconsonantal root f-q-h (ف-ق-ه), meaning 'to understand deeply' or 'comprehend'.
Usage
In classical ghazal, the faqīh is frequently contrasted with the rind (carefree lover) or sufi to satirize orthodox pedantry.
Examples
The verdicts of the jurist of the town
Pay no heed to the jurist's advice
Synonyms
आलिममुज्तहिदविधिवेत्ता
Related Words
फ़िक़्हमुफ़्तीफ़तवाआलिम