Guru Ram Das, the fourth Guru of the Sikhs, was Yogi Bhajan's spiritual guide and protector.  Born in the city of Lahore, which was then India in 1534, he was named Jetha, meaning "first born."  He became a disciple of Guru Amar Das, the third Guru, and Jetha's hard work and devotion earned him the hand of the Guru's daughter Bibi Bhani.  His father-in-law Guru Amar Das bestowed upon Jetha the honor of succeeding him as Guru and renamed him Ram Das, meaning "Servant of God."  Guru Ram Das served as Guru until his death on September 1, 1581 in Amritsar, Punjab, India.

Guru Ram Das inspires us to live a life of compassion, humility, integrity and service. He was the inspiration of the building of the Golden Temple in Amritsar, India, considered to be the most sacred shrine of the Sikhs worldwide.

Known as the Lord of Miracles, the days leading up to his birthday is said to be a powerful time for the fulfillment of prayers and blessings.  For 11 days, we gather in each sangat members' homes for cozy evenings of prayer, meditation, food and fellowship.

We celebrate his birthday in the Amrit Vela (3 - 6 a.m.) on October 9^th each year, with a special Sadhana (daily spiritual practice) of Japji, yoga, and 2.5 hours of reciting Dhan Dhan Ram Das Guru, the shabad praising Guru Ram Das.  In the evening, we enjoy an uplifting kirtan program by community or guest ragis, and Guru ka Langar.

The details of Guru Ram Das's birthday celebrations are published in our community newsletter.  Click here to join our mailing list.

To hear Dhan Dhan Ram Das Gur, visit Sikhnet.com's Gurbani Library.

http://www.sikhnet.com/audio/dhan-dhan-ramdas-guru