Word Meaning
क़दमों
qadmon
Meaning
feet; footsteps; paces (used here in the sense of 'at your feet')
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'qadmon' refers to feet or steps, serving as a powerful motif for devotion, humble submission, and veneration. In this couplet, it designates the sacred presence and feet of the beloved, before which the lover willingly offers his life as a sacrificial gift. The term captures the typical poetic posture of self-effacing love where physical prostration reflects inner spiritual servitude.
Etymology
From Arabic 'qadam' (قدم), meaning foot, step, or rank.
Usage
Commonly occurs in ghazal idioms such as 'qadmon mein' or 'qadmon pe' to express unreserved surrender, prostration, or devotion before the beloved.
Examples
Laying one's head at the beloved's feet
Sacrificing heart and soul at your feet