Word Meaning
शग़्ल
shughl
Meaning
Occupation, pastime, engagement, or pursuit; keeping oneself busy.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'shughl' denotes an occupation, diversion, or pursuit that keeps the mind or senses engaged, often to cope with longing or grief. In this couplet by Ghalib, it describes the poet's downward gaze being constantly preoccupied with counting the blisters on his feet, metaphorically seen as counting stars in the night. The word emphasizes continuous, almost obsessive absorption in sorrow.
Etymology
Arabic root sh-gh-l (ش-غ-ل), relating to occupying or engaging oneself.
Usage
In the ghazal, 'shughl' is commonly paired with drinking wine (मय-नोशी) or weeping (गिर्या) to signify an all-consuming pursuit used to endure heartbreak.
Examples
Occupied day and night with lamentation
Finding solace in a pointless pursuit