The Father of Punjabi Psalms

Imam-ud-Din Shahbaz is widely recognized as one of the most influential Christian poets and translators in the history of Punjab. He is best known for his metrical translation of the Book of Psalms into Punjabi, a contribution that continues to inspire and shape Punjabi Christian worship to this day.

🔹 Early Life

• Born: 1845

• Hometown: Sialkot, Punjab (British India)

• Imam-ud-Din Shahbaz was born into a family with connections to Christian missions. He received his early education through missionary institutions and developed a strong foundation in language and theology.

🔹 Conversion and Calling

Originally a Muslim, Imam-ud-Din Shahbaz later embraced Christianity and dedicated his life to the spread of the Gospel in Punjab.

• He became closely associated with the Church Mission Society (CMS).

• His mission was to make Christian scriptures accessible to the Punjabi-speaking population.

🔹 His Greatest Work: The Punjabi Psalms

📖 The Milestone:

In 1908, Shahbaz completed his metrical translation of the Psalms into Punjabi — a masterpiece known as the Punjabi Zaboor.

Key Features:

• Poetic rhythm and rhyme

• Simple, culturally relevant Punjabi language

• Deep emotional and spiritual expression

• Written in a singable format for church use

“Rab mera chhutkara ae, ohdi panaah vich jaawaan...”
— Psalm 91, Shahbaz translation

🔹 Literary & Cultural Impact

• Introduced Christian poetic tradition into Punjabi literature

• Empowered local worship and musicians with native-language hymns

• Unified Punjabi Christian congregations across denominations

• His Zaboor remains an essential part of church services, prayer gatherings, and religious events

🔹 His Legacy

• Often referred to as "The Father of Punjabi Zaboor"

• His Psalms are still used by Anglican, Presbyterian, Catholic, and Pentecostal churches

• Websites like www.punjabi_zaboor.org continue to preserve and promote his work

• His legacy lives on in worship, culture, and Christian identity in Punjab

🔹 Death

• Died: 1921

• Imam-ud-Din Shahbaz left behind a powerful legacy of faith, music, language, and devotion. His words continue to touch hearts over a century later.

🔚 Conclusion

Imam-ud-Din Shahbaz was not just a translator. He was a bridge between cultures, a poet of faith, and a voice of worship for millions of Punjabi Christians. His metrical translation of Psalms has become a timeless treasure for the spiritual life of Punjab.