Word Meaning
हक़-ना-शनास
haq-na-shanas
Meaning
ignorant of truth or justice; ungrateful; failing to recognize rights
Detailed Meaning
Describes someone who fails to recognize justice, truth, moral duties, or rightful claims. In this couplet, it points to cruel indifference and injustice, asking whether even celestial bodies disregard righteousness like the beloved. It carries a heavy tone of reproach toward one who scorns genuine devotion.
Etymology
Arabic 'haqq' (truth, right, justice) + Persian negative prefix 'nā-' + Persian 'shinās' (recognizer, from shinākhtan).
Usage
In ghazal poetry, it is frequently employed as an accusation against the indifferent and tyrannical beloved who disregards the lover's genuine rights and devotion.
Examples
A heart that turns away from love becomes ignorant of truth.
Do not expect justice from a cruel and ungrateful world.