Word Meaning
रक़्स
raqs
hinoun, masculine
Meaning
Dance; rhythmic motion, jumping, or fluttering movement.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Persian and Urdu poetry, 'raqs' signifies dancing, trembling, or rhythmic leaps, often evoking spiritual ecstasy or intense agony. In this couplet, it forms part of the izafat construction 'raqs-e-sharar' (the dance of a spark), serving as an evocative metaphor for the fleeting brilliance and utter transience of human life.
Etymology
Arabic (رَقْص / raqṣ), verbal noun denoting dancing, leaping, or hopping.
Usage
Frequently paired with tragic or mystical imagery in ghazals, as in 'raqs-e-bismil' (the flutter of a dying creature) or 'raqs-e-sharar' (transient movement of a spark).
Examples
the fluttering dance of a wounded bird
the spark danced for a mere instant
Synonyms
नाचनृत्यथिरकन
Related Words
रक़ासरक़्साँरक़्स-कुनाँ