Word Meaning
हकीम
Hakīm
Meaning
A philosopher, sage, or traditional physician.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu tradition, 'hakim' denotes a philosopher, intellectual sage, or physician of traditional Greco-Arab medicine. In this verse, it represents the rational philosopher contrasted alongside the mystic (arif) and Sufi, all caught up in the outer manifestations of truth. The word highlights the pursuit of reality through rational intellect rather than mystic transcendence.
Etymology
Arabic root ح-ك-م (ḥ-k-m), conveying notions of wisdom (hikmat), discernment, and governance.
Usage
In ghazal poetry, the hakim often personifies dry rationalism or the helpless physical doctor whose remedies fail before the divine madness of love.
Examples
The philosopher remained tangled in the subtleties of thought.
The ache of love is beyond the cure of any physician.