Sukhmani Sahib is the name given to the set of hymns divided into 24 sections. This set of 192 hymns were compiled by the fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
In Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Sukhmani Sahib is titled Gauri Sukhmani. Gauri is the musical measure in which it is sung. The word Sahib is used as a sign of an honorific. It is a lengthy composition and master piece of Guru Arjan Dev ( 1563 -1606 ), the fifth Master, who composed it in 1602- 1603 at the bank of the Ramsar pool in the city of Amritsar. It is recorded in SGGS from page 262 to 296.
Scholars like Bhai Kahan Singh Nabha and Bhai Vir Singh have translated the word Sukhmani as ‘Consoler’ of the mind. It is also called ‘The Psalm of Peace’ or ‘Hymn of Peace’. Swami Rama, a saint scholar, who published its English translation calls it ‘Fountain of Eternal Joy’. Late Prof. Sahib Singh translated it asjewel of comforts, but Dr. Joginder Singh , author of ‘ SukhmaniSahib da Darshnik Aadhar’ (Philosophical Base of Sukhmani Sahib) does not agree with him and says that the word ‘Mani’ points to mind and translates it as provider of peace of mind. Piara Singh Padam’ in his book’ Sukhmani Darshan’ (Philosophy of Sukhmani) explains the meaning of the word ‘ Sukhmani; on page 12 and agrees with Pro. Sahib Singh. German scholar Dr. Trump relates its name to Sukmnan, the word used by yogis, but many scholars do not agree with him.
Its Central Idea
After the first stanza of the first canto (Ashatpadi) there are two additional lines and at the end of these two lines, word Rahaao is added. It means we must stop for a while and ponder over the idea contained in these lines.
Its Contents
The Sukhmani presents teachings of the Sikh faith though there is no progression of thought as in a philosophical work. Each canto unfolds a fresh and particular aspect of the Sikh philosophy. It starts with an invocation to the Supreme Being in the form of four- line sloka. The following six cantos (1-6) dwell on the remembrance of God, i.e. obeying Its commands and following Its virtues.
Its Language and Style
While its language has evolved out of Braj Bhasha, it is closer to Punjabi in many respects. It is one of the easiest compositions in SGGS. It is simple in syntax and structure. Most of it can be understood by a Punjabi without the assistance of a learned priest or a help book. Its many lines are used in daily talk to advise persons who have gone astray.
Conclusion
The hymn of Sukhmani when recited by the devotees early in the morning inspires the reciters as well as the listeners and elevates their hearts. It is spiritual music which soothes the mind and provides solace to all of us who are stressed in our daily life. It is the practice of remembering the Divine Name that brings peace, tranquility and contentment to the seeker and aspirant. It beautifully expresses the teachings of Sikhism. It is the fountainhead of Divine bliss and one who heartily recites it will surely find it. No doubt, it is the best compositions of Guru Arjan Dev and it teaches us to achieve high spiritual state through meditation. Its message is universal and we should understand it thoroughly. It would be seen that Sukhmani – the gem of peace, the Psalm of peace or whatever one calls it says peace is attained through practice of Naam. It is like a river of peace in which we can dip our souls. May this Palms of Peace kindle our hearts!
