मुनक्का

Meaning

A bead of a rosary or prayer necklace.

Detailed Meaning

In this couplet, the word denotes a bead of the prayer rosary slipping through the fingers during the remembrance of the Beloved at the moment of death (naz'). The text prints 'munakkā' as a variant or misprint for 'mankā', which completes the imagery set by 'tasbīh' and 'sumran'. It conveys uninterrupted spiritual devotion continuing to the very last breath.

Etymology

Sanskrit 'maṇikā' (small gem, bead) via Prakrit to Hindi/Urdu 'mankā'.

Usage

In classical ghazal, the slipping of the rosary bead (mankā) often signifies devotion, the passage of life, or the mechanical yet heartfelt act of constant prayer.

Examples

Synonyms

Related Words