Word Meaning
मुलूक
mulook
Meaning
Kings, monarchs, or sovereign rulers (plural of malik).
Detailed Meaning
'Mulook' is the Arabic broken plural of 'malik', signifying kings, emperors, or rulers. In this couplet, it appears in the compound 'muhtaj-e-mulook' to describe one who is dependent upon the charity of worldly kings because they failed to recognize their true Provider (Raziq). It sets earthly sovereigns in stark contrast with divine bounty.
Etymology
Arabic, broken plural of 'malik' (ملك), derived from the triconsonantal root m-l-k (م-ل-ك) relating to possession, rule, and sovereignty.
Usage
In classical Urdu ghazal and nazm, it is commonly employed to emphasize the transient majesty of worldly rulers in contrast with spiritual authority or divine majesty.
Examples
Even the thrones of kings turn to dust.
Kings bow down before the holy dervish.