Word Meaning
लुतफ़
lutf
Meaning
Grace, kindness, favor, benevolence, or pleasure and delight.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'lutf' denotes kindness, favor, grace, or delight. In this couplet by Ghalib, it specifically carries the meaning of benevolent regard or gracious favor from the beloved, grouped alongside 'karam' (generosity), 'mehr' (affection), and 'wafa' (faithfulness). The speaker laments expecting such benevolence from a beloved who turned out to be cruel.
Etymology
Arabic (لُطْف - luṭf), signifying gentleness, kindness, or subtle benevolence.
Usage
In ghazal tradition, 'lutf' is frequently used to contrast the beloved's fleeting acts of gracious favor ('lutf') with their prevailing cruelty ('jaur' or 'sitam').
Examples
chashm-e-lutf (eye of grace or benevolent gaze)
lutf-e-sukhan (the pleasure of poetry or speech)