Word Meaning
अनासिर
‘anāsir
Meaning
Elements; the four classical elements (earth, air, fire, water).
Detailed Meaning
‘Anasir is the plural of 'unsur', denoting fundamental constituents or elements. In classical philosophy and poetry, it predominantly refers to the four primary elements—earth, water, air, and fire—from which the material universe and the human body are formed. In the given couplet, it signifies how these four elements conjure deceptive forms and illusions in the world.
Etymology
Arabic: plural of 'unsur' (عُنْصُر), meaning origin, root, or primary element.
Usage
In classical ghazal poetry, 'anasir' frequently symbolizes the physical, transient human body and the illusory nature of the material world.
Examples
The strife between the four elements.
The deceptive play of the material elements.