Word Meaning
मुल्ला
mullā
Meaning
A Muslim religious cleric or preacher, often associated with dogmatic orthodoxy.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, the 'mullah' represents outward religious formality, dogma, and superficial piety devoid of true spiritual love. In this couplet, he is portrayed as someone entirely ignorant of the transformative madness of mystical passion, having never experienced spiritual abandon. Poets frequently contrast his sheltered orthodoxy with the ecstatic suffering of the genuine lover.
Etymology
Derived from the Arabic word 'mawlā' (master, guardian), adapted through Persian into Urdu as 'mullā'.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, the mullah is traditionally satirized alongside the zahid and sheikh as a foil to the free-spirited rind (drinker) and ashiq (lover).
Examples
The austere counsel of the mullah
The mullah boasts of piety while the lover seeks grace