ज़ह

Meaning

The hem, edge, or border of a garment; also a bowstring.

Detailed Meaning

In classical Persian and Urdu poetry, 'zah' denotes the hem, border, or fringe of a garment, as well as the string of a bow. In the provided couplet, it specifically refers to the delicate hem of the beloved's skirt (dāman), which the lover fearfully protects from being soiled by the blood of the martyrs of love. It brings out the contrast between the pristine elegance of the beloved and the tragic bloodshed of the lovers.

Etymology

Persian (زه), denoting an edge, border, hem, or bowstring.

Usage

In ghazal poetry, it is most often invoked in construct with 'dāman' (dāman kī zah) to denote the fringe or hem of the beloved's robe.

Examples

Synonyms

Related Words