GUNVANTI

GUNVANTI, lit. a woman of becoming qualities, is the title of one of Guru Arjan`s compositions, in measure Suhi, in the Guru Granth Sahib (GG, 763). It follows Guru Nanak`s Kuchajl (lit. an awkward, illmannered woman) and Suchaji (lit. a woman of good manner). The term gunvanti is figuratively used for a true, meritorious devotee. Like the hymns of Guru Nanak, this one too is uttered in the first person, and by implication, it sums up qualities characteristic of a true and pious Sikh.

These qualities arc: humility, reverence for those who are true Sikhs of the Guru, desire for the company of those who can lead you to the true Guru, abandonment of pride and temptation, and subservience to the will of the Guru. This, according to Guru Arjan`s composition, is the path of righteousness. He who follows it, will never be grieved; he will be rid of all temptations and cravings. He will receive the treasure of bhakti (devotional love), and attain the vision of God.