Word Meaning
मसीहाई
masīhā'ī
Meaning
The miraculous power or act of healing and reviving the dead.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, masīhā'ī denotes the miraculous healing power attributed to Jesus (the Messiah), famously associated with bringing the dead back to life. In this couplet, it metaphorically highlights the acclaimed, life-giving sweetness of the beloved's lips, contrasting their legendary healing reputation with their deadly effect on lovers. It reflects the romantic conceit of being slain or cured solely by the beloved's speech and breath.
Etymology
From Arabic 'Masīḥ' (Messiah / Jesus) via Persian abstract suffix '-ī'.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, the beloved's lips and breath are frequently ascribed the trait of masīhā'ī for their ability to resurrect a dying lover.
Examples
shor-e-masīhā'ī (renown of miraculous healing)
dam-e-masīhā'ī (breath of the Messiah)