अफ़्व

Meaning

Forgiveness, pardon, remission of sins, or absolution.

Detailed Meaning

The term refers to the gracious act of forgiving an offence or overlooking an error. In the cited couplet, it signifies the divine or beloved's benevolent pardon ('afw-e-banda-nawaaz') that offers refuge to the speaker's ruined and errant self. It conveys an ultimate, sheltering mercy against the despair of transgression.

Etymology

Arabic root 'ع-ف-و' (ʿ-f-w), signifying to efface, pardon, or remit.

Usage

In classical Urdu poetry, it is frequently invoked in theological and devotional themes to contrast human fallibility with divine or beloved mercy.

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Related Words