Word Meaning
तबीई
tabī'ī
Meaning
Natural, physical, or normal (pertaining to lifespan or nature)
Detailed Meaning
In classical philosophy and Greco-Arabic medicine (Tibb), 'tabi'i' designates that which belongs to nature or physical constitution. In the phrase 'umr-e-tabi'i', it signifies a full, allotted natural human lifespan (traditionally around a hundred years) as opposed to premature or tragic demise. In Ghalib's verse, it reflects the poet's resignation: even if one is denied a long natural life, savoring the present company of the beloved is sufficient blessing.
Etymology
Arabic, derived from 'tabī'ah' (طبیعة), meaning nature, temperament, or disposition.
Usage
In classical Urdu poetry, it is most frequently encountered in compounds like 'umr-e-tabī'ī' (natural lifespan) or 'maut-e-tabī'ī' (natural death), often contrasted with dying from the torment of love.
Examples
To await a natural death instead of dying of love
A full natural lifespan spent in joyful longing