LASHKAR Meaning and
Definition
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Lashkar is a noun of Persian origin that has multiple meanings, depending on the context and cultural connotations.
In its literal sense, "lashkar" refers to a troop, company, or army of soldiers. It is primarily used in regions of South Asia, such as India and Pakistan, where it historically represented a military unit or group of warriors assembled for combat or defense. However, the use of the term has evolved over time.
In contemporary usage, particularly in the context of geopolitical conflicts and terrorist activities, "lashkar" has come to signify a militant or extremist group. These groups often operate outside the framework of established armed forces, employing unconventional tactics in their pursuit of ideological or political goals. These modern "lashkars" are commonly associated with insurgency, terrorism, and asymmetric warfare.
The term "lashkar" can also be used metaphorically to describe any significant assembly, gathering, or collective force mobilized for a particular purpose. This expanded definition encompasses a wide range of scenarios, from cultural processions and religious gatherings to political demonstrations or public protests. In this sense, "lashkar" emphasizes the collective power and shared purpose of a gathered group.
Overall, "lashkar" encompasses various meanings, including a military unit or army, a militant or extremist group, as well as a metaphorical representation of a significant assembly or collective force. The complexity of its usage reflects the diverse historical, cultural, and socio-political context in which the term has been employed.
Etymology of LASHKAR
The word "lashkar" is derived from the Persian language. It entered English through Urdu, which is a language heavily influenced by Persian. In Persian, "lashkar" (لشکر) means an army or a large group of soldiers. It is believed that the word has its roots in the Old Persian language, where it referred to a warrior or a fighter. Over time, the term "lashkar" has been adopted and used in various cultures and languages within the Indian subcontinent, particularly in Urdu and Hindi, to refer to a military force or a large group of people assembled for a specific purpose.
