sevas

Sevas refers to a concept of selfless service prevalent in various Indian spiritual and cultural traditions. It emphasizes performing work or duty without expecting any reward or personal gain, seeing it as an offering or a spiritual practice. The motivation behind sevas is often rooted in a desire to contribute to the well-being of others, the community, or a higher power.

The practice of sevas can manifest in numerous ways, ranging from assisting the elderly and sick to volunteering at temples, ashrams, or charitable organizations. It can also involve simple acts of kindness and helpfulness in daily life. In many spiritual paths, sevas is considered a significant means of purification of the mind and ego, fostering humility, compassion, and detachment.

Different traditions may have specific interpretations and rituals associated with sevas. For instance, in Sikhism, sevas is a core tenet, with community kitchens (langars) and voluntary work in Gurdwaras being prime examples. Similarly, in Hinduism, acts of service are often dedicated to deities, with devotion (bhakti) being a key component. The underlying principle remains consistent: to serve with a pure heart and selfless intent, contributing positively to the world.