Word Meaning
फ़रिश्ता
farishta
Meaning
An angel; a celestial, pure, or divine being.
Detailed Meaning
In Islamic and classical Persian-Urdu cosmology, a farishta is an angel created from divine light, entirely obedient to God. In this couplet, the poet exalts human thought and creative imagination to such a degree that even celestial beings like houris and angels are captured within it. Figuratively, it denotes supreme innocence, divine status, or an untainted celestial creature contrasted with earthly humankind.
Etymology
Persian 'farishta' (فرشته), derived from Middle Persian 'frēstag' meaning 'messenger' or 'envoy'.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, 'farishta' is often juxtaposed with 'insaan' to highlight that humanity's capacity for love and suffering surpasses the passive perfection of angels.
Examples
Even an angel would marvel at the depth of human devotion.
He spoke with the quiet innocence of a wandering angel.