METAPHORS USED IN SUFI POETRY
Here is a list of few of the Metaphors which are used in the Sufi poetry. To get a better understanding of such Similes and Metaphors, an Urdu book by Hazrat Dr. Shah Meerza Ikhtiyar Hussain RA with the title, 'Shayree Mein Sufiana Istalahaat' is a must read. It is an excellent source for the sincere Sufi students.
Beloved, Friend: God
Wine, Intoxication: Ecstasy, Teachings of Shaykh
Tavern: Shaykh’s presence, Sufi Centre
Wine tenderer: Shaykh, Beloved
Light, Day, Face: Immanent aspect of God
Night, Tresses, Mole, Kohl: Transcendent aspect of God.
Veil: Ego
Bird on a wing: Freedom
Flying: Moving into higher states
Union: Annihilation into God
Holi: Unity within diversity
Basant: Season of love
Flower: Spiritual awakening
Bridal make-up: Meditation
Still, newer meanings dawn depending upon the circumstances.
Beloved, Friend: God
Wine, Intoxication: Ecstasy, Teachings of Shaykh
Tavern: Shaykh’s presence, Sufi Centre
Wine tenderer: Shaykh, Beloved
Light, Day, Face: Immanent aspect of God
Night, Tresses, Mole, Kohl: Transcendent aspect of God.
Veil: Ego
Bird on a wing: Freedom
Flying: Moving into higher states
Union: Annihilation into God
Holi: Unity within diversity
Basant: Season of love
Flower: Spiritual awakening
Bridal make-up: Meditation
Still, newer meanings dawn depending upon the circumstances.