Selfless service

Selfless service or seva (Punjabi: ਸੇਵਾ; also written as sewa) in Sikhism—including its ordained philosophy, in Sikh scripture, theology, and hermeneutics—is a service that is performed without any expectation of result or award for performing it. Such services can be performed to benefit other human beings or society. Seva means 'service', referring to the selfless efforts for welfare of all. A more recent interpretation of the word is "dedication to others."[1]

Kar seva at Durbar Sahib.

Religious significance

The idea of selfless service (seva) is an important concept in a number of religions because God is perceived as having an interest in the well-being of others as well as oneself; serving other people is considered an essential devotional practice of indirectly serving God and living a religious life that is a benefit to others.[2]

Usage

The term is used in military awards such as, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), and institutions like Seva Foundation, Gandhi Seva Sadan, Seva Development, and Seva Bharati.

See also

References
  1. Schlecker Markus, Fleischer Friederike (June 14, 2013). Ethnographies of Social Support. p. 180. ISBN 1137330961.
  2. Sewa, Selfless Service sikhphilosophy.net.



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