Sri Guru Ram Das Ji: Founder of Amritsar and Fourth Sikh Guru
Sri Guru Ram Das Ji: Founder of Amritsar and Fourth Sikh Guru
Our humble tribute as we commemorate the 490th Prakash Gurpurb (birth anniversary) of Guru Ram Das Ji today, alongside the year-long 450th anniversary celebrations of his ascension to the Guruship.
Heartfelt Felicitations on the Auspicious Occasion of the Prakash Gurpurb (Birth Anniversary)
We extend our heartiest felicitations to one and all, especially to the Sikh Sangat worldwide, on this sacred occasion. This year holds special significance as we also commemorate the 450th anniversary of Guru Ram Das Ji's ascension to the Guruship—a momentous event that shaped the course of Sikh history. Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Sikh Guru, is revered for his immense contributions to the growth of Sikhism, including the founding of the holy city of Amritsar. His legacy of humility, devotion, and service continues to inspire generations of Sikhs around the globe.
Early Life and Connection to Guru Amar Das Ji
Born as Bhai Jetha in Chuna Mandi, Lahore on Friday, 9th October, 1534, Guru Ram Das Ji's early life was marked by hardship. Orphaned at a young age, he moved to Goindwal at the age of 12 with his grandmother. Goindwal was closely associated with Guru Amar Das Ji, the third Sikh Guru, and it was here that Bhai Jetha's destiny unfolded. His unshakable devotion, combined with his innate humility, drew the attention of Guru Amar Das Ji, who saw in him a true servant of the Guru.
Bhai Jetha exemplified seva (selfless service). Whether drawing water, gathering firewood, or preparing meals for the sangat (community), his acts of service reflected his deep spiritual discipline. His devotion earned him not only the Guru’s trust but also the honour of becoming his son-in-law through his marriage to Bibi Bhani, Guru Amar Das Ji's daughter.
Gurdwara at the Janamsthan, Lahore
An impressive Gurdwara now stands at this sacred site. In their subsequent official communications, the Lahore Khalsa Durbar frequently referred to the Sikh Raj (post-1833), describes itself as the 'Kingdom of Guru Ram Das' (Sarkar-i-Guru Ramdas). This proclamation provided undeniable testimony to the spiritual and religious legitimacy of the Sikh reign by linking it to the revered legacy of Guru Ram Das Ji, who was born in Lahore. This reference not only affirmed the deep spiritual and historical roots of the Sikh kingdom but also highlighted the enduring influence of the Guru's teachings on the governance and ethos of the Sikh Empire.(video darshan)
Baba Buddha Ji and the Ceremonial Anointment of Guru Ram Das Ji
The ascension of Guru Ram Das Ji to the Guruship in 1574— this year being the 450th anniversary of the event— was a deeply spiritual and momentous event in Sikh history. The ceremonial raj tilak (anointment) was performed by Baba Buddha Ji, one of the most respected figures in early Sikhism. His role in anointing successive Gurus highlights the continuity and sanctity of the Sikh spiritual lineage.
1. The Role of Baba Buddha Ji
Baba Buddha Ji was a revered Sikh elder who had the unique distinction of performing the raj tilak ceremony for five Sikh Gurus, from Guru Angad Dev Ji to Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. His profound spiritual stature and unwavering devotion to the Gurus earned him this honour. For Guru Ram Das Ji, the raj tilak symbolised the official transfer of the Guruship, marking his position as the fourth Guru of the Sikhs.
2. Location of the Ceremony
Although the exact location of the ceremony is not explicitly mentioned in the historical sources, it is highly likely that the anointment took place in Goindwal. Goindwal was the seat of Guru Amar Das Ji, the third Guru, and it was here that Guru Ram Das Ji had been serving and was chosen as his successor.
3. Date of the Guruship Ceremony
The date of Guru Ram Das Ji’s ascension to Guruship is recorded as August 30, 1574. This day marks the official beginning of Guru Ram Das Ji's tenure as the fourth Guru of the Sikhs, a role he embraced with humility, devotion, and a vision that would shape Sikhism for generations to come.
4. Spiritual Significance of the Anointment
The ceremonial tilak, applied by Baba Buddha Ji, held profound spiritual meaning. According to Sikh tradition, the tilak mark represents the insignia of divine wisdom and the Shabad (the Word of God). As mentioned in the Sikh scriptures:
"The Guru then blessed the Sodhi Ram Das with the ceremonial tilak mark, the insignia of the True Word of the Shabad."
This act not only anointed Guru Ram Das Ji as the temporal leader of the Sikh community but also underscored his spiritual authority, rooted in the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Baba Buddha Ji’s role in performing this sacred rite reflects the deep trust and respect that the Sikh Gurus placed in him. His legacy, intertwined with the early Gurus, remains a testament to the importance of humility, devotion, and service in the Sikh faith.
Founding of Amritsar: A Vision Realized by Guru Ram Das Ji
Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Sikh Guru, is credited with the establishment of Amritsar, which would grow into the spiritual and cultural heart of Sikhism. The process of founding this sacred city began around 1574 CE and involved several crucial steps, each imbued with spiritual purpose and foresight.
1. Land Acquisition
There are differing historical accounts regarding the acquisition of the land that would become Amritsar:
One version suggests that the land was purchased from the owners of the village of Tung for a sum of 700 rupees. These funds were raised through contributions from the Sikh community, illustrating the collective spirit of seva (selfless service) that underpinned the early development of the city.
Another version holds that Emperor Akbar, impressed by Guru Ram Das Ji's spiritual stature, gifted the land to Bibi Bhani Ji, Guru Ram Das Ji's wife.
Regardless of the method of acquisition, the land was consecrated for a sacred purpose, and its development began under the direct supervision of Guru Ram Das Ji.
2. Initial Development: Amrit Sarovar
The spiritual heart of Amritsar is the Amrit Sarovar, or Pool of Nectar, which Guru Ram Das Ji began excavating soon after acquiring the land. This sacred pool became a symbol of purity and spiritual cleansing. The city, originally called Ramdaspur after the Guru, gradually grew around this holy body of water. The Amrit Sarovar would later lend its name to the city, becoming the foundation of its identity and spiritual significance.
3. Settling the Town
Guru Ram Das Ji invited 52 artisans and traders from various professions to settle in the town and contribute to its development. These settlers included carpenters, masons, woodcutters, and goldsmiths, among others. By welcoming people from diverse backgrounds and trades, Guru Ram Das Ji laid the foundation for Amritsar to become not only a spiritual hub but also a thriving center of economic and communal life. The inclusive nature of this city reflected Sikh principles of equality and community service.
4. Expansion of Ramdaspur
The settlement, initially known as Ramdaspur, flourished under Guru Ram Das Ji’s guidance. He established his official residence and religious center beside the Amrit Sarovar, making it a place of pilgrimage and spiritual reflection. Ramdaspur, under his leadership, became a sanctuary for devotees and travelers alike, promoting values of seva, devotion, and humility.
Morning Devotion and Seva (Raag Gauri, Ang 305)
Gurmukhi:
ਗੁਰ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਕਾ ਜੋ ਸਿਖੁ ਅਖਾਏ ਸੁ ਭਲਕੇ ਉਠਿ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਧਿਆਵੈ ॥
ਉਦਮੁ ਕਰੇ ਭਲਕੇ ਪਰਭਾਤੀ ਇਸਨਾਨੁ ਕਰੇ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਸਰਿ ਨਾਵੈ ॥
Transliteration:
Gur Satigur Kaa Jo Sikh Akhaae Su Bhalake Uth Har Naam Dhiaavai
Udam Kare Bhalake Parbhaatee Isnaan Kare Amrit Sar Naavai
English Translation:
One who calls himself a Sikh of the True Guru shall rise early and meditate on the Lord's Name. Upon arising early in the morning, he is to bathe and cleanse himself in the pool of nectar.
This verse highlights the importance of early morning devotion and spiritual cleansing, both literal and metaphorical, urging Sikhs to begin each day in meditation and service.
Philosophy and Teachings
Guru Ram Das Ji's teachings focused on living a life of humility, selfless service, and devotion. His principles were rooted in the core Sikh values of equality, community service, and spirituality.
Selfless Service: Guru Ram Das Ji urged Sikhs to serve humanity without regard for caste, creed, or status.
Simple Living, High Thinking: He exemplified a life of modesty and deep spirituality.
Kirtan (Devotional Singing): His commitment to kirtan, the singing of hymns, became a central aspect of Sikh worship, a practice that continues today in Sikh gurdwaras worldwide.
Guru Ram Das Ji composed 638 hymns, many of which are included in the Guru Granth Sahib. These hymns express his profound spiritual wisdom and are sung daily at the Harmandir Sahib.
Humility and the Light of Naam (Raag Gujri, Ang 493)
Gurmukhi:
ਹਰਿ ਕੇ ਜਨ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸਤਪੁਰਖਾ ਬਿਨਉ ਕਰਉ ਗੁਰ ਪਾਸਿ ॥
ਹਮ ਕੀਰੇ ਕਿਰਮ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸਰਣਾਈ ਕਰਿ ਦਇਆ ਨਾਮੁ ਪਰਗਾਸਿ ॥
Transliteration:
Har Ke Jan Satigur Satpurakhaa Bino Karo Gur Paas
Ham Keere Kiram Satigur Saranaaee Kar Daiaa Naam Paragaas
English Translation:
O humble servants of the Lord, O True Guru, O True Primal Being: I offer my humble prayer to You, O Guru. I am a mere insect, a worm. O True Guru, I seek Your Sanctuary. Please be merciful, and bless me with the Light of the Naam, the Name of the Lord.
In this verse, Guru Ram Das Ji emphasizes humility and the importance of seeking divine grace, reflecting his deep spiritual teachings.
Contributions to Sikhism
Guru Ram Das Ji’s contributions went beyond spiritual leadership, as he implemented organizational structures that strengthened the Sikh faith:
Manji System: He expanded the manji system for appointing preachers, ensuring Sikh teachings were spread systematically.
Masand System: He established the masand system, where regional representatives collected offerings and spread the teachings of the Guru.
The Laavan: Foundation of the Sikh Marriage Ceremony
The Laavan, composed by Guru Ram Das Ji, form the spiritual and ceremonial foundation of the Sikh marriage, known as Anand Karaj. These hymns encapsulate the essence of marital union within the Sikh faith and are central to the journey of two souls towards the Divine.
3. The Foundation of a Sikh Marriage (Raag Suhi, Ang 733)
Gurmukhi:
ਹਰਿ ਪਹਿਲੜੀ ਲਾਵ ਪਰਵਿਰਤੀ ਕਰਮ ਦ੍ਰਿੜਾਇਆ ਬਲਿ ਰਾਮ ਜੀਉ ॥
ਬਾਣੀ ਬ੍ਰਹਮਾ ਵੇਦੁ ਧਰਮੁ ਦ੍ਰਿੜਹੁ ਪਾਪ ਤਜਾਇਆ ਬਲਿ ਰਾਮ ਜੀਉ ॥
Transliteration:
Har Pahilaree Laav Paraviratee Karam Dhrirraaiaa Bal Raam Jeeo
Baanee Brahamaa Vedh Dharam Dhrirrahu Paap Tajaaeiaa Bal Raam Jeeo
English Translation:
In the first round of the marriage ceremony, the Lord sets out His Instructions for performing the daily duties of married life.
Instead of the hymns of the Vedas to Brahma, embrace the righteous conduct of Dharma, and renounce sinful actions.
In this verse, taken from the Laavan, which forms the core of the Sikh wedding ceremony (Anand Karaj), Guru Ram Das Ji outlines the spiritual duties of married life. He emphasizes the importance of living righteously and renouncing sin. Rather than relying on traditional religious rituals, Guru Ji urges the couple to embrace Dharma—ethical conduct grounded in divine wisdom.
1. Composition by Guru Ram Das Ji
Guru Ram Das Ji composed the four stanzas of the Laavan, which are sung and recited during the Anand Karaj ceremony. These hymns serve as spiritual guides for the couple, outlining the sacred responsibilities of marriage, and emphasizing the journey towards a higher state of unity with the Almighty. Guru Ji's verses highlight marriage not merely as a physical union but as a deeply spiritual bond that mirrors the soul's connection with God.
2. Original Purpose
The Laavan were originally composed by Guru Ram Das Ji for the wedding of his daughter, serving as both a personal and universal expression of Sikh matrimonial philosophy. By including these hymns in a marriage ceremony, Guru Ji reinforced the notion that marriage is a spiritual journey, with each stanza symbolizing a progressive step towards divine realization.
3. The Spiritual Journey of the Laavan
Each of the four Laavan stanzas reflects a stage in the couple’s spiritual and marital journey:
The first Laav speaks of starting a life together with dedication to the divine will and righteous living.
The second Laav emphasizes the practice of meditation and devotion to God.
The third Laav highlights detachment from worldly desires and connecting with divine wisdom.
The fourth Laav celebrates the complete union of the couple with God, marking the culmination of their spiritual and matrimonial journey.
Through these hymns, Guru Ram Das Ji outlined a holistic framework for marriage, where both partners are equally responsible for upholding values of devotion, service, and righteous living.
4. Historical Use and Evolution
While the Laavan were used in wedding ceremonies during Guru Ram Das Ji's time, their practice fluctuated over the centuries. By the late 18th century, the use of Laavan in marriage ceremonies had declined, possibly due to external influences and evolving social customs. However, by the 19th and early 20th centuries, the practice saw a revival, reaffirming the spiritual importance of these hymns in Sikh marital rites.
5. Recognition and Standardization
The Anand Marriage Act of 1909, passed during the British colonial era, formally recognized the Laavan as part of the official Sikh marriage ceremony, marking a pivotal moment in preserving Sikh matrimonial traditions. Additionally, in 1950, the Sikh Rehat Maryada (Sikh Code of Conduct) standardized the modern Anand Karaj ceremony. It mandated the couple to circle the Guru Granth Sahib four times while the Laavan are sung, symbolizing their reverence for the eternal Guru and their dedication to living a righteous life together.
6. The First Anand Karaj Ceremony
In 1579, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Sikh Guru, and Mata Ganga became the first couple to be married through the Anand Karaj ceremony that included the Laavan. This moment set a lasting precedent for future Sikh marriages, embedding the spiritual and communal significance of the Laavan into Sikh matrimonial traditions.
7. A Timeless Tradition
Guru Ram Das Ji’s Laavan continue to be at the heart of every Anand Karaj ceremony. The hymns reflect the eternal principles of love, devotion, and spiritual progression, making the Anand Karaj not just a legal or social union but a sacred spiritual journey. Through the recitation of the Laavan, the couple is reminded that their union is anchored in divine love and guided by the eternal wisdom of the Guru Granth Sahib.
Thus, the Laavan remain a powerful spiritual anchor within Sikhism, guiding couples towards living lives of love, devotion, and service to the Divine.
Initiation of the Golden Temple: A Divine Vision Realized by Successors
Although Guru Ram Das Ji initiated the development of Amritsar, the construction of the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) was carried out under the supervision of his son, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Sikh Guru.
1. Foundation of the Harmandir Sahib
In 1588, Guru Arjan Dev Ji began the construction of the Harmandir Sahib, the spiritual epicenter of Sikhism. It was designed to be distinct from other places of worship, as it was built lower than the surrounding land to signify humility. Additionally, it was made with entrances on all four sides, symbolizing the openness of Sikhism to all people, regardless of caste, creed, or religion.
2. Role of Mian Mir
According to many accounts, Guru Arjan Dev Ji invited the revered Sufi saint Mian Mir to lay the foundation stone of the Harmandir Sahib. This gesture embodied the inclusive nature of Sikhism, fostering interfaith harmony and respect. While some historians debate this narrative, it remains a powerful symbol of Sikh openness and reverence for other spiritual traditions.
3. Completion and Installation of the Adi Granth
The Harmandir Sahib was completed under Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s supervision, and in 1604, the Guru Granth Sahib (then known as the Adi Granth) was ceremoniously installed within the temple. This marked a significant moment in Sikh history, as the holy scripture became the eternal Guru, guiding the Sikh community with its divine teachings.
4. The Iconic Golden Dome
The distinctive golden dome of the Harmandir Sahib, which gives the temple its popular name—the Golden Temple—was added much later during the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the early 19th century. Under his patronage, the temple received its golden cladding, adding to its splendour and further establishing it as a symbol of Sikhism’s strength and grace.
Succession and the Legacy of Guru Arjan Dev Ji
In his later years, Guru Ram Das Ji made the significant decision to appoint his youngest son, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, as his successor, thereby continuing the divine lineage of Sikh Gurus. This choice was not without its challenges, as it sparked familial tension, particularly from Guru Ram Das Ji’s eldest son, Prithi Chand, who felt overlooked and believed he was entitled to the Guruship. Prithi Chand’s resentment created a rift within the family, leading to attempts to undermine Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s authority. However, Guru Ram Das Ji's decision was guided by his spiritual insight and recognition of Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s deep humility, devotion, and visionary leadership. Guru Arjan Dev Ji would go on to fulfil the responsibilities of Guruship with grace and wisdom, completing several foundational projects initiated by Guru Ram Das Ji, including the construction of the Harmandir Sahib. Under Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s leadership, the Harmandir Sahib—later known as the Golden Temple—became the heart of Sikh devotion, embodying the inclusive principles that Guru Ram Das Ji had envisioned. The appointment of Guru Arjan Dev Ji not only ensured the continuity of the Sikh spiritual tradition but also marked a period of consolidation and expansion for Sikhism, both spiritually and institutionally.
Summing Up: A Sacred Legacy
Guru Ram Das Ji’s legacy is one of immense spiritual and institutional significance, resonating across centuries. His foundational contributions, including the establishment of Amritsar, have cemented the city's place as the spiritual heart of Sikhism, drawing millions of devotees to the sacred Harmandir Sahib. His teachings on humility, selfless service, and devotion to God remain a source of inspiration, shaping the ethical and spiritual compass of Sikhs worldwide. The values he embodied—equality, inclusivity, and unwavering faith—are not only enshrined in the institutions he built but also immortalised in the hymns he composed, which continue to echo in the daily prayers of the Sikh faithful.
As we celebrate his 490th birth anniversary (Prakash Gurpurb) today, and mark the 450th anniversary of his ascension to the Guruship, it is evident that Guru Ram Das Ji's contributions transcend the confines of his time. His vision for a just and compassionate society offers a timeless source of spiritual strength and moral guidance. His legacy, a living and dynamic force, continues to inspire and illuminate the path forward for generations to come.
ਧੰਨੁ ਧਨੁ ਰਾਮੁ ਦਾਸ ਗੁਰੁ ਜਿਨਿ ਸਿਰਿਆ ਤਿਨੈ ਸਵਾਰਿਆ 🙏
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