Word Meaning
मिन्नत
minnat
Meaning
Obligation, favor, indebtedness, or humble entreaty.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'minnat' signifies the burden of an obligation, a debt of gratitude, or a submissive plea. In this couplet, it appears in the construct 'minnat-e-iqbal' (the favor or obligation of good fortune), which the fiercely independent speaker scorns to accept. The term conveys how an uncompromisingly proud soul would rather flee good omen than endure the humiliation of indebtedness.
Etymology
Arabic 'minnah' (منة), meaning grace, blessing, favor, or an obligation placed upon someone.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, 'minnat' is often set against self-respect (ghairat), contrasting the shame of being indebted even to destiny with absolute spiritual independence.
Examples
Bearing the obligation of medicine
I owe no debt of gratitude to the gardener