Word Meaning
माथे
māthe
hinoun (masculine, oblique)
Meaning
Forehead or brow; site of prostration and humility.
Detailed Meaning
In classical poetic tradition, the forehead signifies deep devotion, destiny, and submission before the Divine or the beloved. In this couplet, it translates the concept of 'jabīn-e niyāz' (the brow of supplication), where countless unoffered prostrations restless to touch the ground. It embodies the seeker's intense yearning and humble adoration.
Etymology
From Sanskrit मस्तक (mastaka) through Prakrit मत्थ (mattha) into Old Hindi/Urdu ماتھا (māthā).
Usage
In ghazal poetry, it is frequently associated with fate (khatt-e taqdīr) or the sacred act of prostration (sajdah).
Examples
Dust of your threshold rests upon my brow
Thousands of prostrations yearn upon this forehead
Synonyms
पेशानीजबीनललाटभाल
Related Words
सज्दानियाज़सजदागाहक़िस्मत