Word Meaning
मअनी
ma'ni
Meaning
Meaning, inner sense, essence, spiritual reality, or truth.
Detailed Meaning
In classical thought, 'ma'ni' denotes the intrinsic significance, essence, or inner reality of a thing, traditionally opposed to 'surat' (external form). In this couplet, it signifies transcendent truth or the divine essence whose singular manifestation plunges vision into awe. It encompasses both poetic subtlety of idea and profound mystical substance.
Etymology
Arabic (معنى / maʿnā), verbal noun from the root ʿ-n-y (to mean, intend, concern).
Usage
In classical Urdu poetry, 'ma'ni' is frequently juxtaposed with 'surat' (outer form) to explore the tension between superficial appearance and transcendent truth.
Examples
Form is transient, but the inner meaning endures forever.
A single utterance can contain oceans of hidden meaning.