Word Meaning
ढहता
dhahta
Meaning
Collapsing, crumbling, or breaking down due to weakness or decay.
Detailed Meaning
In poetry, 'ढहता' describes a structure, bodily strength, or emotional endurance that collapses into ruin. In this couplet, it captures how the lover's former restless agitation (betabi) has broken down completely under extreme physical and mental weakness (zo'f). The image equates the exhaustion of passionate turmoil with a collapsing, ruined dwelling.
Etymology
Hindustani origin, evolved from Prakrit roots related to collapse and demolition (cf. Sanskrit 'dhvas', to decay or fall).
Usage
Commonly invoked in classical ghazals as a poignant metaphor for physical frailty, failing resolve, and desolate inner ruin.
Examples
The wall of patience slowly collapses in grief.
A body fragile from sorrow collapses under pain.