ईमा

Meaning

A subtle sign, hint, gesture, allusion, or indirect indication.

Detailed Meaning

In classical Persian and Urdu poetry, 'eema' denotes a subtle, indirect hint or glance used in veiled communication. In this couplet, it represents the tiny spark of a gesture from the beloved that triggers a magnificent blaze of poetic inspiration or devotion in the lover. It contrasts the slightness of the initial divine or beloved sign with the immense grandeur of its response.

Etymology

Arabic (إيماء), verbal noun from the root أومأ (awma'a), meaning 'to gesture, beckon, or hint'.

Usage

Often paired with motifs of the gaze or silence to reflect subtle, unspoken communication in the ghazal tradition.

Examples

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Related Words