Word Meaning
गहन
gahan
Meaning
An eclipse of the sun or moon; obscuration or shadow.
Detailed Meaning
In Urdu and Hindustani poetry, 'gahan' denotes an astronomical eclipse, particularly of the moon or sun. In this couplet, it refers to the periodic darkening of the moon as it enters and leaves an eclipse, embodying the cyclic tension between illumination and obscurity. Metaphorically, it evokes a period of sorrow, adversity, or the overshadowing of beauty.
Etymology
From Sanskrit ग्रहण (grahaṇa, meaning 'seizing' or 'eclipse'), passing through Prakrit into Hindustani.
Usage
In classical ghazal, it is traditionally employed as a celestial metaphor for the darkening of beauty, fortune, or joy.
Examples
The glowing moon finally freed itself from the eclipse.
A dark eclipse cast a shadow over her radiant face.