Meaning
A rank of hidden saints through whom, by tradition, God sustains the order of the world.
Literally: substitutes (plural of badal)
Usage & notes
Iqbal invokes the unseen saints sparingly, more drawn to the visible mard-e-momin who openly remakes his community.
Related words
ARABIC
Qutb
The pole star or celestial pole; an axis or pivot; figuratively a spiritual axis of the age.
ARABIC
Autaad
The four pillar-saints who, in Sufi cosmology, anchor and stabilise the spiritual world.
ARABIC
Ghaus
The Helper or Succourer, a title for the highest saint to whom the distressed turn for aid.
ARABIC
Wali
A saint or friend of God, one brought near through piety and granted spiritual authority.