Word Meaning
ज़ुलेख़ा
Zulaikha
Meaning
Zulaikha, the archetypal passionate lover of Yusuf symbolizing obsessive yearning.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Persian and Urdu poetry, Zulaikha is the archetypal figure of consumed passion and enduring longing for Prophet Yusuf. In this couplet, 'rag-e-khwab-e-Zulaikha' (the vein of Zulaikha's dream) illustrates a futile pursuit lost in illusory hope. It portrays how longing can dissipate like roots spreading fruitlessly through phantom visions.
Etymology
From Arabic and Persian literary tradition based on the Qur'anic narrative of Yusuf and the wife of the Aziz of Egypt.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, Zulaikha is conventionally invoked alongside Yusuf to represent profound, unrequited, or obsessive romantic devotion.
Examples
The legend of Yusuf and Zulaikha
Trapped in the longing of Zulaikha