In any language, proverbs, aphorisms, maxims, idioms, and sayings constitute a significant part of the language compositions and serve more than an expression of wisdom and sage counsel for both the present and future generations. The newly-released book titled Muheet-ul-Amsaal: Kahavaton Aur Maqoolon ka Majmooa, a collection of about 7594 Urdu kahavaten (proverbs), 4,053 maqoole (aphorisms), and 1,096 Persian and Arabic aphorisms and proverbs used in Urdu, both spoken and in writing, is a valuable addition to the Urdu lexicography.
Compiled by Wasiullah Khokhar, an Urdu scholar based in Kamonke, Punjab, the 700-page collection titled Muheet-ul-Amsaal can be referred to as the most extensive collection of Urdu proverbs and aphorisms, proffering over 12,000 lexical entries. The tome is published by a Lahore-based publisher, Darul-Nawadir.
Wasiullah Khokhar, a dedicated Urdu scholar and lexicographer, has several works to his credit, especially in the subject areas of Urdu grammar, linguistics, and lexicography. The book is divided into three sections: Urdu proverbs, Urdu aphorisms, and Arabic and Persian proverbs used in Urdu.
As per the key aspects of this collection titled Muheet-ul-Amsaal, Khokhar has duly highlighted many an Urdu proverb primarily based on rhyming words or alliteration. The alliterative aspect of these proverbs not only enriches their phonetic flavour but also enhances their musicality, as well as makes it easy to remember. The examples include:
As mentioned above, the Khokhar’s compilation carries hundreds of classic and modern proverbs and thus provides a thorough overview of ever-evolving Urdu proverbial lore. As per the compiler, the prevalence of rhyming and alliterative Urdu proverbs stemmed from an early lingual tradition in the sub-continent that favored verse over prose. Over and above readymade sentences passed from one generation to the other, proverbs and aphorisms take a wealth of time, sometimes more than centuries, to shape and progress into golden advice or a gem of insight.
Most importantly, the alliterative flavour found in these literary devices makes them the most useful linguistic resources found aplenty in both written and oral literature, while the latter part of the language is able to sustain, thanks to the rhyming and repeated words, bringing in a sweet-sounding musicality and mellifluous alliteration into verbal expressions.
A commendable job done, the book ‘Muheet-ul-Amsaal: Kahavaton Aur Maqoolon ka Majmooa’ is a treasure trove for Urdu lovers.
Leave a Reply