Word Meaning
पास्बाँ
paasbaañ
Meaning
A watchman, guard, protector, or sentinel.
Detailed Meaning
In Persian and classical Urdu poetry, it refers to a night-watchman, sentinel, or guardian assigned to watch over a dwelling or quarter. In this couplet, it represents the vigilant keeper stationed at the beloved's street who, paired with the dogs ('sag'), actively blocks the lover from visiting at night. The poet urges the lover to devise a discreet way around this watchful obstacle.
Etymology
Persian 'pāsbān' (پاسبان), composed of 'pās' (watch, vigil, guard) and the suffix '-bān' (keeper, protector).
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, the 'paasbaan' often functions alongside the rival (raqeeb) as an adversary who denies the lover entry into the beloved's alley.
Examples
The watchful sentinel standing guard at the threshold.
Passing undetected beneath the eye of the gatekeeper.