Word Meaning
बे-ताबी
be-taabi
Meaning
Restlessness, agitation, impatience, or anxious yearning.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'be-taabi' describes the emotional turmoil, agitation, and uncontainable yearning experienced by a lover. In this couplet, it represents the innate, involuntary restlessness of the lover's heart that threatens the concealment of love ('raaz-poshi') and undermines self-restraint ('zabt'). The poet highlights the paradox that peace itself is unattainable without giving in to this passionate disquiet.
Etymology
Persian: compound of prefix 'be-' (without) + 'taab' (patience, endurance, capacity) + abstract noun suffix '-i'.
Usage
A staple concept in the ghazal, often set in direct conflict with 'sabr' (patience) and 'zabt' (stoic restraint).
Examples
The heart's restless longing revealed the secret of love.
No quiet slumber was possible amid the soul's agitation.