Ram Dass

Date of Birth: April 6, 1931

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: December 22, 2019

Biography

Ram Dass, born Richard Alpert on April 6, 1931, in Newton, Massachusetts, was a prominent American psychologist, spiritual teacher, and author. He is best known for his book “Be Here Now,” which has been a seminal work in the field of spirituality and consciousness since its publication in 1971. Originally a psychology professor at Harvard University, he was dismissed in 1963 for his controversial research into the effects of LSD alongside colleague Timothy Leary. This led him to a life-changing journey to India, where he met his guru, Neem Karoli Baba, who gave him the name Ram Dass, meaning “Servant of God.” Ram Dass spent the following decades teaching and sharing his insights on spirituality, mindfulness, and the importance of living in the present moment. He founded several organizations, including the Hanuman Foundation and the Seva Foundation, which focus on social service and spiritual growth. Ram Dass’s teachings have influenced millions of people around the world, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of spiritual seekers.

5 Interesting Facts about Ram Dass

1. Ram Dass was a pioneer in the exploration of consciousness and the use of psychedelics for spiritual growth.

2. His book “Be Here Now” has sold over two million copies and continues to be a cornerstone of spiritual literature.

3. He co-founded the Seva Foundation, which works to combat blindness and poverty in developing countries.

4. Ram Dass was paralyzed on the right side of his body following a stroke in 1997 but continued to teach and write.

5. He was a close friend and collaborator with other spiritual teachers, including Alan Watts and Jack Kornfield.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ram Dass

1. “Be here now.”

2. “The quieter you become, the more you can hear.”

3. “We’re all just walking each other home.”

4. “Suffering is part of our training program for becoming wise.”

5. “The heart surrenders everything to the moment. The mind judges and holds back.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Ram Dass’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million, primarily from book sales, speaking engagements, and donations to his foundations.