इमकाँ

Meaning

Possibility, contingency, or the physical realm of contingent existence.

Detailed Meaning

In classical Urdu poetry and philosophy, 'imkaan' signifies contingency or potential existence, representing creation as opposed to absolute necessity. In this couplet, it appears in the compound 'aalam-e-imkaan' (the contingent world), emphasizing the transience and fragility of all worldly grandeur. The poet cautions the listener that earthly elevation in such a perishable realm inevitably leads to decline.

Etymology

Arabic (إمكان / imkān), derived from the triconsonantal root m-k-n, denoting ability, power, or possibility.

Usage

Frequently used in philosophical ghazal couplets, especially in the phrase 'aalam-e-imkaan', to denote the finite, created universe.

Examples

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Related Words