मिट्टी

Meaning

Earth, soil, dust; metaphorically, the mortal human body.

Detailed Meaning

In classical Urdu poetry, 'mitti' refers literally to soil or clay and metaphorically to mortal flesh. In this couplet, it represents the perishable physical body ('jism-e-khaki') seen as an exhausting burden carried by the soul. The imagery of a 'basket of earth' emphasizes the sheer weight and worthlessness of worldly existence.

Etymology

Sanskrit 'mṛttikā' (मृत्तिका) evolved through Prakrit 'maṭṭiā' into Hindi/Urdu 'mittī'.

Usage

In ghazal poetry, it is standardly used to express the transience of human life and the inevitable return of the body to the grave.

Examples

Synonyms

Related Words