Word Meaning
माया
maaya
Meaning
Capital, substance, foundational essence, or source of vitality.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Persian and Urdu poetry, 'māyah' refers to the primary substance, foundational capital, or intrinsic essence of something. In the given couplet, 'māya-e-jān' signifies the core essence or life-giving elixir, which remains unattainable like alchemy despite intense restlessness. It is distinct from the Indic philosophical term 'māyā' (illusion) and specifically denotes material or existential wealth.
Etymology
Persian (مایه / māya), meaning substance, origin, ferment, or capital stock.
Usage
In the classical ghazal, it frequently appears in izafat constructions such as 'māya-e-dard' or 'māya-e-hastī' to represent the vital core or sole resource of the lover.
Examples
The capital of sorrow is our only true possession.
Without the essence of love, living is impossible.