Word Meaning
शायाँ
shāyāñ
Meaning
Suitable, befitting, worthy, or proper.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu and Persian poetry, 'shāyāñ' signifies that which is worthy, suitable, or commensurate with one's grandeur and stature. In the quoted couplet, the speaker (identifying with lightning) proclaims that mere dry grass and twigs are unworthy targets for its majestic fury. It conveys an elevated sense of self-respect, sublime purpose, and rejection of the trivial.
Etymology
Persian (شایان - shāyān), the present participle of the verb 'shāyīdan' (شاییدن), meaning 'to be worthy, fitting, or suitable'.
Usage
Commonly encountered in elevated ghazal diction, particularly in the compound phrase 'shāyān-e-shān' (befitting one's glory or majesty).
Examples
It is not befitting of true love to harbor complaint.
A grand throne alone was worthy of his dignity.