मरहूम

Meaning

Deceased, the late; one who has received divine mercy.

Detailed Meaning

Literally meaning 'one upon whom mercy has been bestowed', it is standardly applied as an epithet for the deceased. In this couplet, it is metaphorically applied to 'sabr' (patience), personifying patience as a companion that has passed away from prolonged grief. This witty yet poignant device highlights the complete depletion of the lover's endurance.

Etymology

Arabic, passive participle from the triconsonantal root r-ḥ-m (ر-ح-م), meaning 'to show mercy' or 'pity'.

Usage

In classical Urdu ghazal, poets often deploy this term with tender irony to personify abstract feelings like hope or patience whose death has been brought about by separation.

Examples

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Related Words