Word Meaning
गहे
gahe
Meaning
Sometimes, at times, or occasionally.
Detailed Meaning
In Persian and classical Urdu poetry, 'gahe' (a poetic contraction of 'gahe' / 'gah-e') serves as an adverb meaning 'at times' or 'sometimes'. In this couplet, it works in tandem with 'gah' to contrast fluctuating states—lingering now over a smile, then again over mere words. It captures the lover's hesitation and the restless dispersion of focus while valuable time slips away.
Etymology
Persian (a poetic variant of 'gāhē', derived from 'gāh' meaning time or place).
Usage
Frequently paired with 'gah' in ghazals to set up a rhythmic contrast representing the fickle nature of the beloved or the shifting fortunes of fate.
Examples
Gahe shād o gahe nāshād (sometimes joyful, sometimes sorrowful)
Gāh lutf o gahe sitam (now kindness, and at other times cruelty)