Word Meaning
खींचा
kheenchā
Meaning
To draw, pull, or unsheathe (a sword or bow).
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu verse, this verb is frequently used in martial and romantic imagery to signify drawing a sword or stretching a bowstring against the lover. In this couplet, it appears in the frequentative compound 'खींचा न कर' (do not keep drawing), pleading with the beloved not to repeatedly test the lover's mortal fragility with an unsheathed blade. It evokes themes of trial, cruelty, and fatal passion.
Etymology
Derived from Sanskrit 'kṛṣ' (to draw, drag) evolving through Prakrit into Hindustani 'khīñcnā'.
Usage
In ghazals, it is standardly combined with 'तेग़' (sword) or 'कमान' (bow) to portray the beloved's merciless allure.
Examples
Do not draw the blade of tyranny against the helpless.
He drew the sword with an intent to slay.