Sikhism

Founder of Sri Amritsar Sahib - Guru Ramdas Ji Gurpurab

Manjot Singh
Updated October 7, 2025

Guru Ram Das Ji — The Embodiment of Humility and Devotion



Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Sikh Guru, is revered as the epitome of humility, service, and devotion. Born as Bhai Jetha Ji in Lahore on 24th September 1534, he laid the foundation of Sri Amritsar Sahib — the spiritual and cultural heart of Sikhism. His life and teachings continue to inspire millions to live with love, humility, and dedication to the Divine.

Guru Ram Das - SikhiWiki, free Sikh encyclopedia.


Guru Ram Das Ji was born to Baba Hari Das Ji and Mata Anup Devi Ji in the Sodhi Khatri family of Lahore (now in Pakistan). Orphaned at a young age, Bhai Jetha Ji earned his living by selling roasted grains. Despite hardship, his heart remained immersed in devotion to God.

Later, he met Guru Amar Das Ji, the third Sikh Guru, and became his devoted disciple. Recognizing Bhai Jetha Ji’s humility, dedication, and selfless service, Guru Amar Das Ji married his daughter Bibi Bhani Ji to him.


After years of dedicated seva (selfless service) and meditation, Guru Amar Das Ji bestowed the Guruship upon Bhai Jetha Ji in 1574 CE, renaming him Guru Ram Das Ji — meaning Servant of God.

He continued the mission of his predecessors by spreading the message of Naam Simran (meditation on God’s Name), Kirat Karni (honest living), and Vand Chakna (sharing with others).


Guru Ram Das Ji founded the city of Amritsar (originally called Ramdaspur) and began the construction of the Amrit Sarovar (Pool of Nectar). This sacred pool later gave the city its name.

The Guru encouraged people from all walks of life to contribute through seva, promoting equality and unity. Today, Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) stands at the center of that same pool — a symbol of universal brotherhood and humility.


Gurbani by Guru Ram Das Ji

Guru Ram Das Ji’s hymns are recorded in the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, spanning 679 Shabads across 30 Ragas. His compositions focus on devotion, humility, the importance of a Guru, and the bliss of divine union.

Here are a few of his beautiful verses:


ਜੀਅ ਜੰਤ ਸਭਿ ਤੇਰਾ ਖੇਲੁ ॥

Jeea Janth Sabh Thaeraa Khael ||

All beings and creatures are your play-things.


ਵਿਜੋਗਿ ਮਿਲਿ ਵਿਛੁੜਿਆ ਸੰਜੋਗੀ ਮੇਲੁ ॥੨॥

The united ones are separated, and the separated ones are re-united. ||2||

ਆਸਾ (ਮਃ ੪) (੫੩) ੨:੪ - ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ : ਅੰਗ ੩੬੫ ਪੰ. ੧੫




Guru Ram Das Ji emphasized that true spirituality is found not in ritual, but in love, humility, and service. His teachings guide Sikhs to live a graceful and disciplined life, rooted in compassion and community.




Written by Manjot Singh

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