Word Meaning
मदरसा
madrasa
Meaning
A school, seminary, or center of traditional religious education.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'madrasa' signifies an academy of formal religious learning and scholastic theology. In this couplet, it represents one of the orthodox, formal spaces contrasted with the liberating tavern ('may-kada'). It frequently stands as an emblem of bookish pedantry and exoteric ritual, juxtaposed against the boundless, ecstatic realm of divine love.
Etymology
Arabic مَدْرَسَة (madrasah), noun of place from the root d-r-s (د-ر-س), meaning 'to study' or 'to instruct'.
Usage
In classical ghazal, madrasa is routinely contrasted with the tavern (may-kada) to satirize dry scholastic orthodoxy in favor of experiential spiritual passion.
Examples
Left the madrasa behind to dwell in the lane of love.
What instruction can a madrasa impart to a restless heart?