Word Meaning
सनम-कदे
sanam-kade
Meaning
Idol-temple or pagan shrine; metaphorically, the dwelling of beautiful beloveds.
Detailed Meaning
Literally denoting a temple of idols, the term in classical Urdu poetry often serves as a metaphor for a gathering or dwelling of earthly beauties. In this verse, it is placed in contrast with the austere melancholy of the ascetic 'khanqah', representing the vibrant realm where the poet's restless heart finally finds attachment and delight. Here, it appears in its oblique form due to the following postposition.
Etymology
Compound of Arabic 'sanam' (idol, statue) and Persian suffix '-kada' (house, place, abode).
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, the sanam-kada is regularly contrasted with orthodox religious spaces like the mosque or monastery to celebrate worldly charm and love.
Examples
turning away from the monastery toward the sanam-kada
the heart found solace inside the sanam-kada