Word Meaning
मुंकिर
munkir
Meaning
One who denies, disbelieves, or refuses to acknowledge; a denier.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'munkir' denotes someone who rejects, doubts, or refuses to acknowledge a reality or truth. In this couplet, it refers to the speaker's friends who deny or fail to recognize his inner anguish simply because he maintains an outward smile. The word also carries theological weight, denoting an unbeliever or referring to Munkar, one of the two interrogating angels of the grave.
Etymology
Arabic origin; active participle of 'ankara' (انکر), meaning 'to deny', 'disavow', or 'reject'.
Usage
In ghazal poetry, 'munkir' frequently contrasts with 'muqir' (one who affirms) or depicts unsympathetic companions who refuse to accept the lover's suffering.
Examples
A denier of the heart's hidden anguish
To stand as a munkir before divine truth