Word Meaning
कहकशाँ
kahkashān
Meaning
The Milky Way; galaxy; a luminous celestial band of stars.
Detailed Meaning
In astronomy and literature, it refers to the Milky Way galaxy or celestial cluster of stars. In the given couplet by Iqbal, it represents the vast cosmic expanse and astronomical grandeur waiting in reverence for the spiritual elevation of humankind. Poetically, it evokes a radiant, glittering pathway across the night sky.
Etymology
Persian 'kahkashān' (literally: straw-dragger, from kah 'straw' + kashān 'pulling/dragging', referencing the Milky Way's resemblance to a trail of dragged chaff).
Usage
In classical Urdu poetry, it is frequently used as a metaphor for an intensely luminous trail, heavenly beauty, or cosmic vastness.
Examples
A trail of light like a galaxy in the dark night
Footprints that illuminate like the Milky Way