به طبع

From Middle Persian (Pahlavi) 'pad tab' (𐭯𐭣 𐭲𐭠𐭯), meaning 'by nature' or 'naturally'. This in turn derives from Old Persian *pati-tap- where *tap- means 'to be warm, to burn', hence 'inherent heat' or 'natural disposition'. Cognates include Sanskrit 'tapas' (ascetic fervor, heat) and Avestan 'tapaiti' (to be warm). Over time, the meaning evolved from literal 'heat' to 'innate character' or 'disposition'. The preposition 'به' (be) meaning 'by' or 'to' combines with 'طبع' (tab'), which itself is a borrowing from Arabic 'ṭabʿ' (طبع), meaning 'nature, temperament, character'. The Arabic word also carries the connotation of 'imprinting' or 'stamping', which further reinforces the idea of something being inherent or fundamental. Therefore, 'به طبع' literally translates to 'by nature' or 'by temperament', indicating something is intrinsic, natural, or occurs as a natural consequence. The usage in Persian has been consistent for centuries, reflecting this core meaning. Early Persian texts, such as those from Ferdowsi and Rumi, frequently employ this phrase to describe inherent qualities or natural occurrences. The concept of 'tab'' (طبع) is deeply embedded in classical Persian literature and philosophy, often referring to one's disposition, temperament, or the natural order of things. This phrase emphasizes the inherent, unchangeable aspect of a phenomenon or characteristic, suggesting it is not learned or acquired but rather a fundamental part of its being.