Bhagat jee was born in a so-called low-caste family of "Chamaars", whose profession was making leather and shoes. Gradually he started spending most of his time in the sangat (company) of saints and Sadhus and built himself a thatched hut wherein he received and entertained wandering holy people. Many stories became current about Bhagat jee's simplicity and holy nature.
In spite of his so-called low caste, Bhagat Ravidaas jee rose to a position of great honour through a life of simplicity and piety. He never felt ashamed of his birth (into a so-called low caste) and fearlessly faced the Panddits (Hindu scholars), who were proud of their high caste. He told them that spiritual greatness is achieved through a loving devotion to Waheguru and the attainment of Waheguru's grace.
Bhagat jee says in Gurbani:O people of the town, I am obviously a 'Chamaar', a shoe-maker.Within my mind, I contemplate the Pervading Waheguru and meditate on virtues of the world-Lord. Pause. (Ang 1293 Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji)
He reached God-consciousness (Brahm-Gyaan) and experienced Waheguru. Through Bhagat jee Gurbani was revealed. Forty of Bhagat jee's shabads (hymns) have been incorporated in Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee by Guru Arjan Dev jee.
You are me, and I am You-what is the difference between us? We are like gold and the bracelet, or water and the waves. (Ang 93 Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji)
Message from Teachings: Bhagat jee rejects distinctions between man and man on the basis of caste or creed, for, as he says, in the world beyond no such differentiations will be acknowledged. Bhagat Jee illustrates in Gurbani that the ultimate end of human life is to become enlightened to realize Waheguru, therefore, one should live life meditating and remembering Waheguru, giving up ritualism.Birth in a so-called "low caste" or having low social status is no hindrance in the way to spiritual development.
