مرسته
mrasta
The Pashto word for help is مرسته (mrasta).
مرسته is a noun meaning assistance or help. It is used when you want to refer to the concept of providing assistance to someone or something.
Meaning: transitive: provide assistance to (someone or something) (verb)
How does it change in a sentence?
To use the noun as a verb meaning 'to help', it is typically paired with the verb کول (to do) to form the phrase مرسته کول. Additionally, the noun changes to the oblique/genitive form مرستې when it is used in a possessive sense or follows certain prepositions.
How do you pronounce it?
mrasta
Did you know?
- In Pashto culture, the concept of مرسته is deeply tied to 'Nanawatai', a traditional Pashtun code of honor where providing sanctuary and help to an enemy is a sacred duty.
- When offering help to an elder, it is common to use much more indirect and flowery language than the simple مرسته کول, to avoid appearing as though you are pointing out their weakness.
- In some high-register Pashto poetic forms, the idea of helping is expressed through the concept of 'hand' (دست), where 'giving a hand' is embedded into the vocabulary of assistance.
Example conversation
Zala is at home and sees Umar struggling with heavy bags.
- زالا Zalaعمر، ایا زه ستاسو مرسته کولای شم؟Umar, aya ze staso marasta kawalay sham?Umar, can I help you?
- عمر Omarډیره مننه، زالا.Dera manana, Zala.Thank you very much, Zala.
- عمر Omarدا ډیر دروند دي.Da der drwand dee.These are very heavy.
- زالا Zalaزه به ستاسو مرسته وکړم.Ze ba staso marasta wukram.I will help you.
