Word Meaning
हुस्न-परस्ती
husn-parastī
Meaning
Worship, adoration, or aesthetic appreciation of beauty.
Detailed Meaning
Literally meaning the worship or devotion to beauty, 'husn-parasti' denotes an elevated aesthetic inclination and sincere appreciation of graceful forms. In this couplet, it represents a dignified attitude of true connoisseurs ('ahl-e-nazar') that has been degraded by pretenders and lustful seekers ('bul-hawas'). It underscores the tension between pure artistic love and hollow, carnal desire.
Etymology
Compound of Arabic 'ḥusn' (beauty, grace) and Persian 'parastī' (worship, adoration, from 'parastīdan').
Usage
In classical Urdu poetry, it usually signifies a refined, quasi-spiritual devotion to earthly or celestial beauty, often contrasted sharply with baser appetites.
Examples
Husn-parasti is an art reserved for the discerning.
His husn-parasti was mistaken for fleeting lust.