Word Meaning
गुम-राही
gum-raahi
Meaning
Losing one's way, straying, deviation, or erring from the path.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu literature, 'gum-raahi' signifies losing one's route, either morally, spiritually, or intellectually. In this couplet, Ghalib applies it metaphorically to artistic or stylistic deviation in the realm of poetry ('rah-e-sukhan'). Under the guiding influence of Bedil's pen, the poet feels immune to any creative misdirection.
Etymology
Persian compound formed from 'gum' (lost), 'raah' (way/path), and the abstract noun suffix '-i'.
Usage
Commonly contrasted with 'hidayat' (guidance) or 'rahbari' (leadership) in mystical, moral, and stylistic themes of the ghazal.
Examples
The fear of straying on the difficult path of love
Finding redemption after years of spiritual deviation