Word Meaning
जुर्म
jurm
Meaning
Crime, fault, guilt, or offense; an act of transgression.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'jurm' refers to a crime, transgression, or fault, frequently situated within the emotional dynamics of love. In this couplet, it denotes the culpability or blame for the tension existing between the lover and the beloved. The poet shifts the burden of fault, asking who is genuinely responsible for the tug-of-war.
Etymology
Arabic root ج-ر-م (j-r-m), originally signifying severance, committing a crime, or sin.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, 'jurm' is often ironically romanticized as the 'crime of loving' (jurm-e-ulfat), turning worldly guilt into a badge of devotion.
Examples
What is my crime if not loving you unconditionally?
Confessing the guilt of passion before the beloved.