Word Meaning
अहज़ाँ
ahzāñ
Meaning
Sorrows, griefs, or deep distresses; plural of huzn (sorrow).
Detailed Meaning
Ahzān is the Arabic broken plural form of huzn, denoting multiple afflictions, griefs, and melancholies. In classical poetry, it most prominently features in the compound 'kulba-e-ahzān' (the cottage of sorrows), a poetic allusion to the secluded dwelling where the Prophet Ya'qub wept over the separation from Yusuf. In this couplet, it represents the lover's customary dwelling of gloom and melancholy from which he has finally started venturing out.
Etymology
Arabic, broken plural of 'ḥuzn' (حزن), signifying grief, sadness, or mourning.
Usage
Most frequently utilized in the ghazal tradition within the Persianate izafat construction 'kulba-e-ahzān' to evoke sustained poetic melancholy and intense longing.
Examples
A lifetime consumed within the house of sorrows
Such sorrows that words fail to convey