Word Meaning
राहज़न
Raahzan
Meaning
A highwayman, robber, or bandit on the road.
Detailed Meaning
A Persian compound denoting a highway robber who plunders travelers on their journey. In Urdu poetry, it metaphorically represents an oppressor, fate, or worldly deception that strips the traveler of peace and freedom. In this couplet, it refers to the cruel captor whose feet the defeated and captured speaker is ironically compelled to serve.
Etymology
Persian compound formed from 'rāh' (road, path) + 'zan' (stem of 'zadan', to strike/beat), literally meaning 'one who strikes the path'.
Usage
In classical Urdu ghazal, 'rahzan' is frequently paired in antithesis with 'rahbar' (guide) to lament betrayal by trusted companions or deceptive mentors.
Examples
Looted by the highwayman on the path of love
A highwayman disguised as a guide