Word Meaning
बनात-उन-नाश
Banaat-un-Na'sh
Meaning
The constellation Ursa Major, literally meaning 'the daughters of the bier'.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Arabic and Urdu astronomy, Banat-un-Na'sh refers to the constellation Ursa Major (the Great Bear), traditionally visualized as daughters following a bier. In this couplet, the stars are personified as bashful maidens who remain hidden behind the veil of daylight but cast off their coverings to shine uncovered at night. The poet uses this mythological astronomical term to create a vivid contrast between modesty by day and radiant unveiling in darkness.
Etymology
Arabic: 'Banāt' (daughters) + 'al-Na'sh' (the bier or litter).
Usage
In classical ghazal poetry, it is invoked as an astronomical metaphor for celestial beauty, scattered gatherings, or unveiled maidens.
Examples
The Banat-un-Na'sh glittered across the high heavens.
hidden like Banat-un-Na'sh behind the veil of day