Word Meaning
मुहाबा
muhaba
Meaning
Partiality, favoritism, hesitation, or sparing someone out of respect or fear.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'muhaba' signifies sparing someone, exercising restraint, or showing undue regard and favoritism. In this couplet by Ghalib, the lover urges the beloved not to hesitate or hold back their lethal glance, assuring them that no blood-money will be demanded. It highlights the lover's absolute readiness to be slain without any mercy or hesitation shown by the beloved.
Etymology
Arabic (مُحَابَاة / muhābāh, from the root ح-ب-و meaning to give a gift or favor someone)
Usage
In ghazal poetry, it often appears as 'be-muhaba' (fearless/unhesitating) or in challenges demanding that the beloved not show any mercy or hesitation.
Examples
Speak the truth fearlessly and without any favoritism.
Do not spare me with your sharp glances; strike without hesitation.