Word Meaning
दस्त-ब-दस्त
dast-ba-dast
Meaning
From hand to hand; passed sequentially from one person to another.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'dast-ba-dast' signifies the continuous transfer of an object or state from one holder to another. In this couplet, it underscores the transience of imperial power and worldly reign, which never permanently stays with one sovereign. It draws a contrast between shifting royal fortune and enduring symbolic relics like Jamshid's ring.
Etymology
Persian compound formed from 'dast' (hand), the preposition 'ba' (to/with), and 'dast' (hand).
Usage
In ghazal poetry, it is frequently used to evoke the fleeting nature of wealth, power, and the ceremonial circling of the wine-goblet.
Examples
Sovereignty traveled from hand to hand across the ages.
The cup of wine moved from hand to hand in the assembly.