ज़ुलम

Meaning

Oppression, cruelty, injustice, tyranny, or unjust torment.

Detailed Meaning

In classical Urdu poetry, this term represents unjust cruelty, oppression, or harsh treatment inflicted upon a lover. In this couplet, it highlights the immense suffering and torment that the lover willingly endures at the hands of the beloved or fate while maintaining unwavering fidelity. It stands as an emblem of unprovoked emotional injury born without complaint.

Etymology

Arabic root ظ-ل-م (z-l-m), pertaining to wrongdoing, injustice, or darkness.

Usage

A foundational trope in the ghazal, where the beloved's indifference and cruelty are celebrated as noble suffering rather than resented.

Examples

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Related Words