Arabic Observations: Solace Through Forgetting

التَّأَمُّل

root: ء-م-ل / form V verbal noun / definition: reflection, contemplation

I’ve been in a reflective mood lately. And it’s the type of reflection that is directly opposed to productivity rather than one that drives it: consuming, daydreamy, paralysing.

As such, it made sense for me to write a reflective post today, adding to our Arabic Observations—a series I’m particularly fond of.

And this reflection begins on page 498 of the Hans Wehr…

Under the defective root س-ل-و, we find the noun سُلْوان:

…which is defined as: forgetting, oblivion; consolation, solace, comfort.

Look at that semicolon nestled amongst the definitions, separating notions of forgetting and those of solace, gathered under a single noun.

It made me think: is forgetting a necessary part of solace?

Is solace incomplete or impossible without at least a little bit of amnesia?

Can we really feel comforted if we still remember every detail that causes us pain?

And does consoling someone mean helping them to forget?

Then, is solace found by falling into emotional oblivion?

I try to think back to the last time I consoled someone. Then, to the last time someone consoled me.

But to be honest, my memory isn’t that good and I can’t remember. (Whether that supports the link between solace and forgetting is up for discussion…)

Have any other dictionary definitions led your mind on a wander? I’d love to hear your reflections.

.مع السلامة