Word Meaning
साहब-दाैलताँ
sahib-e-daulatañ
Meaning
Wealthy or affluent people; possessors of fortune and worldly riches.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, this Persian plural form denotes people of immense wealth, status, and worldly fortune. In the cited couplet, the poet expresses disdain for the condescending charity or favors of the rich, asserting an uncompromising sense of self-respect and ascetic pride. It underscores the contrast between worldly prosperity and the poet's dignified poverty.
Etymology
Arabic 'sahib' (possessor) and 'daulat' (wealth) combined with the Persian plural suffix '-an'.
Usage
Commonly used in ghazals to contrast worldly benefactors with the self-respecting, detached persona of the poet or dervish.
Examples
The favors of the wealthy are heavy upon the dignified soul.
The dervish seeks no audience in the court of the affluent.