[298] The stake was a common mode of punishment in India in former days, and, until recently, was practised among the Sikhs, Marhattas, and other Asiatic princes, who were independent of our government.
[299] Addressing himself to the king Azad Bakht.
[300] The term kibla signifies the "point of adoration," and is generally applied to the Ka'ba, or holy edifice, situated in the sacred inclosure of Mecca. To this point all Muhammadans must turn when they pray.
[301] The prayer of martyrdom among the Musalmans. It is often repeated when they go into action against Christians and Pagans
[302] According to the Muhammadan belief, Nakir and Munkir are two angels who attend at the moment of death, and call to an account the spirit of the deceased.
[303] Literally, "satiated the dog of my stomach."
[304] Literally, to perform the act of "rubbing the nose on the earth," expressive of extreme humility.
[305] Literally, "having fastened [on his person] the four mirrors."
[306] The term zuhr strictly denotes the period devoted to the mid-day prayer, which is offered up after the sun has perceptibly declined from the meridian. Vide note 4, in page 14.
[307] The name of the countries which lie, as the people of Hindustan term it, below Bengal, i.e., to the south-east of it; the name includes the kingdoms of Ava and Pegu.