SUCHAJl (SUCHAJJI)

SUCHAJl (SUCHAJJI), literally, a woman of good manner and accomplishment, is the title of one of Guru Nanak`s compositions, in measure Suhi, in the Guru Granth Sahib. Antithetically, it follows another of his compositions called Kuchaji (literally, an awkward, illmannered woman). Suchaji (`sn`, meaning good or appropriate; `chaf meaning manner or style, with i being the suffix of feminine singular) is the term figuratively used to typify the qualities of a gurmukh (egoless person turned towards lord). According to Janam Sakhi tradition, Guru Nanak uttered these verses in conversation with Shaikh Brahm (Ibrahim), a distant spiritual successor of Shaikh Farid of Pakpattan, whom he met in the course of one of his journeys through western Punjab. Shaikh Brahm had said that they who truly loved the Infinite Being were the true ones. Guru Nanak elaborates and says that true love of God consists in living in accordance with His Will. The true devotee, suchajji, remains constant in her love. However variable material circumstances may be, she abides by the will of the Almighty.

Metaphorically, the poem conveys Guru Nanak`s conception of a true devotee. Such a devotee surrenders himself completely to the will of God ; his faith remains unshaken under all circumstances; whatever God ordains tastes sweet to him. A true man of God (suchay`J, in this context) is convinced that all that happens is by the command of the Lord; and that his duty is to accept His command cheerfully. He is humble and dutiful and his only desire is to attain proximity to the Lord. The poem is marked by a deeply devotional tone, its picturesque symbolism and tilting music.

References :

1. Sabdarth Sri Guru Granth Sahib. Amritsar, 1975