Word Meaning
मौला
maula
Meaning
Master, lord, protector, patron, or guardian.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Islamic and poetic literature, 'Maula' denotes a sovereign master, helper, or protector, frequently used for God, the Prophet Muhammad, or Ali. In this couplet, 'Maula-e-Yasrib' refers honorifically to Prophet Muhammad as the lord of Yasrib (Medina). The speaker implores him as a spiritual master to remedy an intellect corrupted by foreign doubt and weak faith.
Etymology
Arabic (مَوْلَى), from the root w-l-y (و-ل-ي), denoting closeness, authority, guardianship, and mastery.
Usage
Ubiquitous in Sufi, naat, and manqabat poetry to address God, the Prophet, or saintly spiritual authorities.
Examples
None remains the refuge of the broken-hearted but the Master.
O Lord of the universe, have mercy on our condition.