The ascetic or abstinent pietist who shuns worldly pleasure; in the ghazal a figure of dry, often self-righteous renunciation.
Literally: abstinent one, ascetic
The zahid embodies a cold, loveless piety that Iqbal contrasts unfavourably with the rind's living devotion. His abstinence is shown as empty when it lacks the fire of love and the courage of the self.
Rind
The free-spirited libertine of the tavern, who scorns hypocritical piety in favour of sincere, intoxicated devotion.
Shaikh
An elder, religious authority, or head of an order; in the ghazal often the orthodox, worldly cleric set against the lover.
Waaiz
The preacher or homilist who admonishes from the pulpit; in the ghazal a figure of hollow exhortation.
Naaseh
The well-meaning advisor or counsellor who urges prudence and restraint upon the lover.