Word Meaning
मीज़ाँ
mīzāñ
Meaning
A pair of scales, balance, or measure used for evaluation.
Detailed Meaning
In classical verse, 'mīzān' represents a scale, balance, or standard of judgment. In this couplet, it signifies the superficial criterion by which one measures existence merely by counting passing days and nights, rather than by genuine striving and spiritual depth. It often carries theological overtones of the scales of justice.
Etymology
Arabic (مِيزَان, from the triconsonantal root w-z-n, meaning 'to weigh').
Usage
Frequently invoked in Urdu ghazal to denote the ultimate scales of divine judgment on the Day of Resurrection (mīzān-e-mahshar) or the subjective criterion of worldly appraisal.
Examples
All deeds shall be measured on the scale of divine justice.
There exists no balance fine enough to weigh the sorrow of the heart.