Word Meaning
ग़ुलाम
ghulām
Meaning
A slave, servant, or bondsman completely devoted to someone.
Detailed Meaning
Literally denoting a slave or servant, 'ghulam' signifies complete subjugation and humble obedience. In this couplet, Mir describes his presence in the beloved's quarters not as an honored guest or poet, but as a submissive servant without agency or dignity. It expresses the lover's utter self-effacement and loss of pride before the beloved.
Etymology
From Arabic غُلَام (ghulām), originally meaning 'boy' or 'youth', which evolved into 'slave' or 'page' in Persian and Urdu.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, the lover frequently describes himself as a 'ghulam' to emphasize selfless devotion and emotional surrender to the beloved.
Examples
In the realm of passion, every emperor becomes a slave.
I have lived as a devoted bondsman at your threshold.