Word Meaning
सतवत
satvat
Meaning
Awe, majesty, power, terror, dominion, or intimidating authority.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'satvat' refers to overwhelming awe, majesty, or the terrifying power that inspires dread. In this couplet, it denotes the daunting authority and fearful dread of the slayer ('satvat-e-qaatil') that nevertheless fails to silence the lover's impassioned cries. It underlines the lover's indomitable anguish standing firm against deadly might.
Etymology
Arabic (سطوة / saṭwah), meaning assault, leap, dominion, or formidable sway.
Usage
In the ghazal, it is commonly invoked in the genitive construction (e.g., satvat-e-shah, satvat-e-qaatil) to characterize sovereign dread or the beloved's unyielding cruelty.
Examples
the terrifying awe of kings
the majesty of the beloved