Word Meaning
मरहून
marhun
Meaning
Pawned, mortgaged, indebted, or bound by obligation.
Detailed Meaning
Literally denoting something pawned or pledged as security, 'marhun' in classical poetry conveys helplessness, dependence, or emotional indebtedness. In this couplet, Ghalib pairs it with 'rahn' to reveal that the beloved's apparent nonchalance was actually bound to external ornament—her hands were pledged to henna and dependent on its tint. It ironizes pride by showing beauty entirely captive to its own cosmetic devices.
Etymology
Arabic, passive participle of the root r-h-n (ر-ہ-ن), meaning to deposit as a pledge, pawn, or mortgage.
Usage
In the classical Urdu ghazal, it is most celebrated in the compound 'marhun-e-minnat', denoting the humiliation of being indebted to someone's favors.
Examples
We shall not remain beholden to the cupbearer's generosity.
My very breath was pledged to the sorrow of separation.