As an expression of continuity, miskin is derived from sükûn (stillness, tranquility). That is, a miskin is someone whom need has brought to stillness and whose movement has been diminished. With this quality, it is said: The person has attained tranquility. Just as, when armor is donned, one says tederre'a (he put on armor) and mütederri' (one who wears armor). When need becomes like a garment to be worn for him, the faqir (faqīr, one in need) is similar in this respect. Lexicographers differ regarding faqir and miskin. Some have said that the miskin is in a worse state than the faqir. (Küt, II, 111)
According to some linguists, a faqir is one who has a little, while a miskin is one who has nothing at all. According to others, it is exactly the opposite... (Cāmiʿ, 203)