Sant Ravidas – Saint of Equality

The Birth of a Great Saint

Sant Ravidas Ji was born in the 15 century in Varanasi, which is a sacred city in northern India. His birth name was Rohidas, but later he changed it to Ravidas. His parents, Kabir Das and Debi, were of Brahmin and Shudra caste respectively, and their union was considered as illicit by traditional Brahmin customs. But love and mutual respect for each other did not see any obstacles of social inequality in the way. His father worked as a weaver and taught Ravidas the art of weaving.

A Life of Spiritual Quest

Rohidas (Ravidas) showed an intense inclination towards spiritual matters from a very young age. In his 16th year, he met a Hindu saint and started his spiritual journey under his guidance. He spent most of his time reading scriptures and meditating. He was drawn to the Bhakti movement (Path of Devotion), which emphasized the love and devotion for the Supreme Lord. He met several saints during his travels who influenced his spiritual journey, like Shiva Das and Somanath.

Preaching Equality Through Faith

Sant Ravidas Ji strongly believed that faith, devotion, and equality were the essential components of a true spiritual path. He emphasized the unity of all beings and that every soul is capable of achieving Moksha (Liberation) through love and worship of the Supreme Lord. His teachings rejected the rigidities of social caste systems that prevailed at that time. In his verses, he encouraged every individual to follow the path of Dharma (Righteous Life) and to respect every soul regardless of their social status.

His Poetic Verses

Sant Ravidas Ji composed many poetic verses in his Bhakti movement journey. His compositions, in addition to his sermons, continue to influence generations of faithful. His poem Bhajan Bina Bujhge, “With devotion, one cannot understand, the mysteries of existence”, exemplified his message about spiritual pursuit and self-awareness.

Tribulations and Triumphs

Sant Ravidas Ji also met several challenges during his lifetime. His message of equality created many enemies among the caste-driven society of that time. Many Brahmins and Kshatriyas of high caste ridiculed him due to his untouchable caste. He was also criticized for not adhering to strict Vedic rituals and for accepting lower-caste followers in his Bhakti movement. Despite the challenges, his faith in the Supreme and love for humanity continued to inspire his teachings.

Conclusion

As we reflect on the life and teachings of Sant Ravidas Ji, we are reminded of the immense power of love and devotion. This great saint embodied the spirit of equality, and his poetry and hymns will continue to be an inspiration for those on the path of Bhakti (path of devotion). He reminds us of the inherent value of all beings, regardless of their external status, social caste, or creed. In a society still grappling with the issues of social inequality and injustice, Sant Ravidas’ message is more relevant than ever. His legacy reminds us of the enduring power of love, devotion, and self-awareness.

Some of his Poems

• Shabad Bina Aise Soch Na Ho – (The thought of God cannot be in mind without shabad) – He was the one who said that a shabad can guide you through your life.
• Mukund Maiya – (My Lord of Mukunda) – In his song “Mukund Maiya,” Ravidas describes his lord Mukunda, the remover of suffering and troubles.
• Suravala – (Garland of songs) – He composed “Suravala” which consists of one hundred poems.

His Teachings

• Moksha – Liberation: All souls can attain moksha through the love of Supreme Lord.
• Dharma – Righteous Life: To follow a Dharma path and live a righteous life is the essence of Ravidas teachings.
• Equality: To treat all beings as equal and to follow the path of Dharma in life.

Last Tribute

Sant Ravidas Ji’s last ritual is said to have taken place in Varanasi. After his passing, the city, where once he was rejected for his mixed caste, now celebrated him as their own son. He left behind teachings and poetry that continue to guide us on the path of devotion and love. He is considered one of the great saints of India and his message has transcended the centuries and reached every corner of our country.

A Lasting Legacy

Today, the legacy of Sant Ravidas Ji is a testament to the enduring power of love, devotion, and self-awareness. His message has touched the lives of millions across the world and will continue to inspire future generations to follow the path of Dharma, righteousness and devotion. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched and through the poetry and hymns he left behind.

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