अक़ीक़

Meaning

Carnelian or agate; a reddish gemstone used metaphorically for blood-red tears.

Detailed Meaning

In classical poetry, 'aqīq' denotes carnelian or red agate, a precious stone known for its deep crimson hue. In this couplet, it represents the tear tinged with heart's blood, shining like a gem on the eyelash. The poet likens the painful, blood-filled teardrop directly to a fragment of liver-colored carnelian.

Etymology

Arabic 'aqīq' (عَقِيق), meaning carnelian or agate, derived from the root 'aqqa' (to split or cleave).

Usage

In the ghazal tradition, carnelian is commonly invoked to depict either the beloved's deep red lips or the lover's weeping of bloody tears.

Examples

Synonyms

Related Words