Word Meaning
शैख़-जी
Shaikh-ji
Meaning
Reverend elder or religious preacher, often addressed with polite satire or irony.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'Shaikh-ji' represents the orthodox preacher or ascetic, functioning as a conventional foil to the lover and the free-thinking rind. The honorific suffix '-ji' is often attached with affectionate mockery or biting irony to expose hollow moralizing and outward sanctimony. In this couplet, the speaker humorously derides the Shaikh's appearance and hypocrisy, noting that anyone who sees him is repelled.
Etymology
Arabic 'shaikh' (elder, religious leader) combined with the Indo-Aryan honorific suffix '-ji'.
Usage
A stock archetypal adversary in the ghazal, frequently targeted by poets to criticize orthodox moralism.
Examples
What business does Shaikh-ji have in the tavern?
Listen to Shaikh-ji deliver his dry sermon once again.