Sukh

Sukh is a term used in Indian languages to denote happiness, comfort, or ease. In its Sanskrit form, sukha, the word expresses a state of well-being or pleasant experience. The modern transliteration sukh is common in Hindi, Punjabi, and related languages, and it frequently appears in personal names and place names.

Etymology and usage: The word derives from Sanskrit sukha, with the prefix su- signaling goodness or well-being. In everyday use, sukh conveys general welfare, comfort, or contentment. The concept appears across Hindu, Buddhist, and Sikh contexts, though its nuances vary by tradition.

Religious and philosophical context: In Hinduism, sukha is often contrasted with duḥkha (suffering), referring to worldly happiness or favorable conditions as opposed to pain. In Buddhist discourse, sukha can denote pleasant feelings or conditions that may be transient, distinguished from deeper spiritual realization. In Sikhism, the idea of inner Sukh relates to peace and contentment within, and the term features in liturgical expressions and devotional poetry, such as those found in the Sukhmani Sahib.

Use as a name: Sukh is frequently used as a given name or as part of compound names, especially among Punjabi and North Indian communities. Notable examples appear in names like Sukhdev, Sukhbir, and Sukhpreet, where the meaning of happiness or well-being is an auspicious attribute.

See also: Sukha, Dukh, Sukhmani Sahib.