Word Meaning
सितम
sitam
hinoun
Meaning
Oppression, tyranny, cruelty, or injustice.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'sitam' signifies cruelty, torment, and relentless oppression, typically inflicted by the beloved, the world, or ruthless fate. In this couplet, it appears in the compound 'tegh-e-sitam' (sword of tyranny), depicting the harsh suffering and wounds that afflict both the lover and those he sought solace from.
Etymology
Persian ستم (sitam, meaning violence, oppression, distress).
Usage
A staple motif of classical ghazal poetry, 'sitam' is often juxtaposed with 'karam' (grace/benevolence) to contrast the beloved's cruelty with the lover's patient devotion.
Examples
To inflict cruelty upon the helpless
Enduring the tyranny of the times
Synonyms
ज़ुल्मजौरअत्याचारबेदाद
Related Words
सितमगरसितम-दीदासितम-ज़रीफ़ी