Word Meaning
जिन्हें
jinhein
Meaning
Whom; those whom (accusative or dative relative pronoun).
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu and Hindustani grammar, 'jinhein' functions as the oblique plural or honorific form of the relative pronoun 'jo' combined with the dative/accusative marker. In this couplet by Mir, it designates the specific individuals previously believed or reputed to be aware and conscious. The speaker uses it to emphasize the ironic contrast between their outward reputation ('whom I heard were aware') and their actual heedlessness.
Etymology
From Sanskrit relative base 'ya-' through Prakrit/Apabhramsha into Hindavi 'jin' combined with the objective postpositional suffix '-hī̃'.
Usage
Frequently used in classical ghazal to balance syntactically with correlative pronouns like 'unhein' (उन्हें) for thematic antithesis.
Examples
Whom we held dear left us in sorrow.
Those whom destiny favors fear no storm.