Word Meaning
तमा
tama'
hinoun, feminine
Meaning
Greed, avarice, covetousness, or an intense desire for reward.
Detailed Meaning
Refers to excessive desire, greed, or covetous expectation of gain. In this couplet, it denotes the crude longing ('tama-e-khaam') for heavenly reward in return for pious deeds. The poet critiques asceticism that appears outwardly sincere yet remains fundamentally tainted by selfish expectations.
Etymology
Arabic root ط-م-ع (ṭ-m-ʿ), signifying to covet, desire eagerly, or be greedy.
Usage
In classical Urdu poetry, it frequently appears as an obstacle to sincere devotion and selfless love, contrasting sharply with true spiritual detachment.
Examples
Wasting a lifetime in crude greed
Keeping one's skirt clean from covetousness
Synonyms
हिर्सलालचलोभआज़
Related Words
तामेतमा-ए-ख़ाममुतमईन