Word Meaning
तरह्हुम
tarahhum
Meaning
Mercy, compassion, pity, or showing kindness.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'tarahhum' denotes the granting of mercy, compassion, or benevolence, typically sought by an afflicted lover from a proud beloved. In this couplet, it signifies an urgent appeal for mercy toward the vulnerable public exposed to the lethal allure of the beloved's pride. Such kindness is urged to prevent even personified death from intervening.
Etymology
Arabic (تَرَحُّم), derived from the root r-ḥ-m (ر-ح-م, signifying mercy or compassion), formed on the tafa''ul verbal noun measure.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, 'tarahhum' is often invoked as a desperate supplication by the lover pleading for respite from the beloved's customary cruelty.
Examples
Show mercy upon this broken heart.
No gaze of pity fell on the helpless.