The "Sant Ravidas Ratnawali" is a collection of devotional songs and hymns attributed to Sant Ravidas, a revered saint-poet of the Bhakti movement in medieval India. Sant Ravidas was born in the 15th century in Varanasi (formerly known as Banaras), Uttar Pradesh, India. He is considered one of the most influential saints in the Bhakti movement, which emphasized devotion to a personal form of God.
The "Ratnawali" is a compilation of his teachings, poems, and songs, which emphasize love, equality, and devotion to the divine. Ravidas's compositions often challenged social hierarchies and advocated for the equality of all individuals regardless of caste or social status.
His verses are highly regarded for their simplicity, yet profound spiritual depth. They continue to inspire millions of people across India and beyond. The "Sant Ravidas Ratnawali" serves as a valuable repository of his teachings and a source of spiritual guidance for his followers.
The "Sant Ravidas Ratnawali" is not a single, standardized text but rather a collection of the teachings, poems, and hymns attributed to Sant Ravidas. It is believed to have been compiled by his followers and later generations who sought to preserve his spiritual legacy.
Ravidas's compositions often touch upon themes such as the importance of love and devotion (bhakti) in attaining spiritual realization, the futility of social hierarchies based on caste, and the universal equality of all beings in the eyes of the divine. His verses frequently emphasize the idea of surrendering to the divine will and seeking union with the Supreme through devotion.
Sant Ravidas's teachings have had a profound impact not only on the Bhakti movement but also on Indian society as a whole. His messages of social equality and spiritual liberation continue to resonate with people from diverse backgrounds, inspiring them to strive for a more just and compassionate world.
While there may not be a single definitive version of the "Sant Ravidas Ratnawali," various compilations and editions exist, each containing a selection of his verses and teachings. These texts serve as valuable resources for those seeking to understand and engage with the spiritual wisdom of Sant Ravidas.
Certainly! While there isn't a single authoritative text called the "Sant Ravidas Ratnawali," the term generally refers to collections of verses, hymns, and teachings attributed to Sant Ravidas. These collections have been compiled by his followers and later scholars over the centuries. Here are some additional details:
Life of Sant Ravidas: Sant Ravidas was born in the 15th century, likely around 1450 AD, in Varanasi, India. He was born into a family of leather workers, which was considered a low-caste occupation at that time. Despite his humble background, Ravidas rose to prominence as a revered saint-poet due to his spiritual insights and devotion to God.
Philosophy and Teachings: Sant Ravidas's philosophy was deeply rooted in the Bhakti movement, which advocated for personal devotion to God as a means of spiritual liberation. He emphasized the importance of love (prema) and devotion (bhakti) in attaining union with the divine. Ravidas rejected the rigid caste system of his time and preached the equality of all beings, regardless of caste, creed, or social status. His teachings often critiqued societal inequalities and encouraged social justice and compassion.
Literary Contributions: Sant Ravidas composed devotional poetry in various dialects of Hindi, including Avadhi and Braj Bhasha. His verses were simple yet profound, resonating with people from all walks of life. Some of his most famous compositions include "Amritbani" and "Anmol Vachan," which are included in the Sant Ravidas Ratnawali compilations.
Impact and Legacy: Sant Ravidas's teachings had a significant impact on Indian society, particularly in challenging caste-based discrimination and promoting social harmony. His followers, known as Ravidasis, continue to venerate him as a spiritual guide and role model. His verses are recited in religious gatherings, and his teachings remain relevant in contemporary discussions on social justice and spirituality.
Compilation and Availability: The Sant Ravidas Ratnawali is not a single, standardized text but rather a compilation of Sant Ravidas's verses and teachings. Various editions and versions of the Ratnawali exist, compiled by different individuals and organizations. These compilations may include hymns, devotional songs (bhajans), philosophical discourses, and anecdotes from Sant Ravidas's life.
Overall, the Sant Ravidas Ratnawali serves as a cherished spiritual resource for millions of people, offering guidance on the path of devotion, social equality, and spiritual realization.
