An Ontological Study of Meer’s Ghazals

Abstract

Ontology is the fundamental branch of metaphysics that deals with the nature of being and existence. Just as philosophy is a quest for truth and metaphysics seeks to understand realities beyond human intellect, ontology focuses on the first reality, absolute existence, or, in other words, God. Due to its foundational significance, it is often referred to as the "first philosophy." The human mind has long been occupied with questions such as: What is God like? Where is He? What does He do? How does He govern the universe? These inquiries form the basis of ontological thought in metaphysics. Since such questions intrigue even the common man, they naturally become a subject of deep reflection for poets. Many classical Urdu ghazal poets have expressed these concerns in poetic form, but among them, Mir Taqi Mir holds a unique place. His ghazals frequently explore the themes of existence, divine reality, and the nature of the self in relation to the cosmos. Mir's poetry presents a philosophical depth that aligns with ontological inquiry. His verses not only reflect an intense personal search for meaning but also engage with the larger metaphysical concerns of existence and the divine. If one examines his poetic corpus in its entirety, it becomes evident that his ghazals can be viewed as a poetic expression of ontological thought. This article aims to present an ontological study of Mir’s ghazals, analyzing how his poetry embodies the philosophical discourse on being and existence.