From a young age, Arjan Dev Ji had a strong love for Gurbani. He used to do Kirtan on the Sarangi and was well-versed in the different Raags. Additionally, he used to do seva in the Guru’s Langar (community kitchen). When Arjan Dev Ji returned from a long trip in Lahore, Guru Ram Das Ji decided to pass on the Gurgaddi. Guru Ram Das Ji’s other sons were not a good fit. Prithi Chand had too much ego and desire, while Baba Mahadev Ji was too detached. On Bhadron Sudhi 2, 1638 BK (September  18, 1581 AD), Guru Arjan Dev Ji was appointed as the 5th leader of the Sikhs. Guru Arjan Dev Ji had the perfect balance of Naam (remembering Vaheguru), Seva (selflessly serving) and engaging with Sangat and community. Bhai Gurdas Ji describes in his Vaaran:

ਫਿਰਿ ਆਈ ਘਰਿ ਅਰਜਣੇ ਪੁਤੁ ਸੰਸਾਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਕਹਾਵੈ।

Now the Guruship entered the house of Arjan (Dev) who, to say was the son, but, he proved through his good deeds to be worthy of the Guru-seat.