Word Meaning
राई
rā'ī
Meaning
Mustard seed; metaphorically, something minute, trivial, or insignificant.
Detailed Meaning
Literally denoting a mustard seed, the word 'rā'ī' is traditionally employed in poetry as the quintessential symbol of utter insignificance and tininess. In this couplet, it serves as an antithesis to 'parbat' (mountain), illustrating that the strength of selfhood ('khudī') can elevate the humblest speck to immense majesty. Conversely, the forfeiture of inner conviction reduces an imposing mountain to a mere particle.
Etymology
From Sanskrit राजिका (rājikā), meaning black mustard seed.
Usage
In classical and modern Urdu poetry, 'rā'ī' is most commonly paired antithetically with 'parbat' to express the dramatic polarity between utter insignificance and monumental stature.
Examples
To make a mountain out of a mustard seed.
A mustard seed ascends to a mountain through sheer will.