Word Meaning
बुत-शिकनी
but-shikanī
Meaning
Idol-breaking; the destruction of false idols, illusions, or ego.
Detailed Meaning
Literally denoting iconoclasm or the breaking of idols, but-shikani frequently functions in classical Urdu poetry as a metaphor for destroying spiritual illusions and false attachments. In this couplet, the poet acknowledges mastering the destruction of external or conventional idols, yet concedes that the persistence of the ego ('we') remains the heaviest boulder obstructing the path. Thus, the ultimate idol-breaking is not physical, but the overcoming of self-regard.
Etymology
Persian compound of 'but' (idol) and 'shikan' (root of 'shikastan', to break) with the abstract noun suffix '-ī'.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, 'but-shikani' is often deployed as a trope of profound spiritual rebellion against superficial worship and self-delusion.
Examples
True enlightenment requires the but-shikani of one's own ego.
His poetry remains an act of fearless but-shikani against dogma.