Word Meaning
ब-नक़्स
ba-naqs
Meaning
Toward the flaw or defect; looking at shortcomings.
Detailed Meaning
Literally meaning 'toward the defect' or 'upon the flaw', it functions here syntactically with 'nazar' (gaze) to mean viewing or focusing on shortcomings. In this verse, Ghalib considers it the height of disrespect to criticize or point out the defects of the impoverished and humble. It highlights a philosophical principle of tolerance and courtesy toward those considered low in the social hierarchy.
Etymology
Persian preposition 'ba' (to, toward, upon) + Arabic 'naqs' (deficiency, defect, flaw).
Usage
A classical Persianate construct typically paired with words of perception like 'nazar' or 'nigāh' to indicate fault-finding.
Examples
To direct one's gaze toward flaw is ungenerous.
The noble soul rarely looks toward flaw.