Word Meaning
भक्ति
bhakti
Meaning
Devotion, religious worship, or devout reverence towards the divine.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Indian and poetic traditions, 'bhakti' denotes selfless devotion, worship, and heartfelt surrender to the Beloved or Supreme Reality. In this Hindi translation of Allama Iqbal's famous verse, it represents 'jabeen-e-niyaaz' (the brow of devoted submission), where countless prostrations yearn to be offered.
Etymology
Sanskrit origin, derived from the verbal root 'bhaj' (भज्), meaning to divide, revere, or worship.
Usage
While foundational to Bhakti movement poetry, in Urdu-Hindustani ghazal settings it parallels concepts like 'aqeedat' and 'niyaaz', evoking devout and humble submission.
Examples
Without true devotion, mere ritual carries no meaning.
His brow bore the silent marks of yearning devotion.