ख़िरद-मंदी

Meaning

Wisdom, prudence, intellect, or worldly rationality.

Detailed Meaning

In classical Urdu poetry, khirad-mandi denotes reason, intellect, and worldly discretion, which is frequently contrasted with love's unbridled madness. In this couplet, rationality is depicted as an unwelcome restraint or chain that robs the speaker of the pure joy found in unrestrained frenzy. It underscores the romantic trope where madness is seen as liberating while wisdom is an oppressive constraint.

Etymology

Persian compound formed from 'khirad' (intellect, wisdom) and the suffix '-mand' (possessor of), followed by the abstract noun suffix '-i'.

Usage

In the ghazal tradition, khirad-mandi is usually cast in opposition to junun (passion) and seen as an obstacle to transcendent love.

Examples

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Related Words