Word Meaning
शैख़
shaikh
Meaning
An elder, religious scholar, or preacher; often used satirically in Urdu poetry.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'shaikh' denotes an elder, pious person, or Islamic scholar. It frequently serves as a conventional archetype of orthodox, rigid, and hypocritical piety contrasted against the free-spirited lover (rind). In this couplet, the speaker addresses the Sheikh, dismissing his incoherent sermon or disapproval in the face of spiritual or poetic intoxication.
Etymology
Arabic: 'shaikh' (شَيْخ), meaning an elder, a venerable old man, or a spiritual master.
Usage
In the Ghazal tradition, the Shaikh is almost always treated with playful mockery or sharp satire as the antagonist of the wine-drinking rind.
Examples
Shaikh preached piety in the mosque while looking toward the tavern.
Do not heed the advice of the rigid Shaikh, O lover.