It’s no secret that corporate life can be demanding, leaving little time to nurture our spiritual side. Long work hours and a focus on deadlines can make it easy to lose touch with the deeper meaning of life. Living away from home, the only influence of religion I now have is from the memories of childhood and the talks with my parents.
What is Spirituality?
Honestly, I don’t know much about rituals but enjoy learning from the present and past through religion and books. I am however deeply inclined to work on my spirituality. Royal College of Psychiatrists defines Spirituality in this paper as knowing that our lives have significance in a context beyond a mundane everyday existence at the level of biological needs that drive selfishness and aggression. It means knowing that we are a significant part of a purposeful unfolding of Life in our universe.
In my search for ways to cultivate spirituality within my busy corporate life, I came across the concept of Seva. Seva, a term found in Indic religions, translates to “selfless service.” It’s the art of giving without expecting anything in return.
While true selflessness may be a complex philosophical concept (as Phoebe had shown it to Joey in this F.R.I.E.N.D.S episode), the act of serving others has the power to bring a deep sense of fulfillment and connection.
So dear lovely reader, I thought of looking into what Indic religions say about Seva.
Hinduism
In Hinduism, Seva means selfless service and is often associated with karma yoga (every action is done in service of the divine, as elaborated in See Bhagwat Geeta), disciplined action, and bhakti yoga (where Krishna asks Arjune to work for the divine, See Bhagwat Geeta), disciplined devotion. Seva is also connected to other concepts such as dāna (charity to the needy), karunā (showing compassion in regular life), and preman (practicing love and kindness). This, Seva can be directed towards God or humanity. Serving those in need is seen as serving a manifestation of the divine. Temples often provide opportunities for Seva, like cleaning or assisting with pujas (religious rites) and donating to temple charities which in turn help the needy.
Buddhism
In Buddhism, Seva is connected with the concept of Karuna (compassion) – a core Buddhist teaching. Serving others helps alleviate suffering and creates merit on the path to enlightenment. It is believed that the donation of service is much more valuable than the donation of money. The intention counts. The Buddha said, Cetanā ahaṃ, bhikkhave, kammaṃ vadāmi—Volition, O monks, I call kamma. When you give dāna (donate to charity), your intention is, “With my money, so many people will benefit. I can give money to give food to someone, or good clothing or education. These are very good deeds. So this kind of volition in the mind goes to the credit of kamma (karm). Even if we look at the concept of a Bodhisattva, who delays their own nirvana to help others achieve enlightenment, it emphasizes the importance of selfless service in Buddhism.
Sikhism
Sikhs talk about Seva through Tan – Man – Dhan (body, mind and wealth). The Sikhs have a unique concept of Langar where they feed anyone who comes to their Gurudwara to all regardless of caste or religion as a gesture of equality. A tradition is set forth in the community with the clear understanding that by serving humanity one is serving God’s creation. It fosters a sense of community and breaks down social barriers.
Jainism
Seva aligns with Jainism’s principle of ahimsa (non-violence). Jains practice Seva through acts of care for all living beings, including animals and plants. Helping the less fortunate and protecting the environment are important forms of Seva in Jainism. The Jain motto Parasparopagraho Jīvānām (Tattvārtha Sūtra, 5.21) encapsulates the Jain understanding of ‘Seva’. The translation can be interpreted as that all life is bound together by mutual support and interdependence. Philosophically, the souls render service to one another. Seva is seen as a path to spiritual growth and liberation. By helping others, Jains cultivate compassion and detachment from worldly desires.
Whether Seva can be truly selfless, I do not know. What I know is if and when I am able to make a small impact on another soul or the environment, through my words or actions, I feel more connected to the Divine. Hence, I do not think I am helping anyone, instead they are helping me be a better version of myself.
Sounds Complex. Can Seva be involved in everyday life?
Seva isn’t about achieving sainthood; it’s about integrating compassion and service into your everyday life. By incorporating the following simple Seva practices, you’ll discover a deeper sense of purpose and connection, transforming your daily grind into something truly meaningful.
- Start Small: At work, offer to help a colleague with a task or mentor a junior. Can’t donate money? Volunteer your time at a local soup kitchen or animal shelter.
- Embrace Micro-Seva: Hold the door for someone, offer a genuine compliment, or pick up litter on your way to work. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, ripples outward.
- Seva for the Planet: Reduce your carbon footprint, conserve water, or support sustainable businesses. Seva extends to caring for our environment.
- Social Media Seva: Share positive and uplifting content online. Use your voice to advocate for those in need.
- Volunteer Your Skills: Dedicate a lunch break or weekend to a cause you care about. Websites like Idealist can connect you with local volunteer opportunities that match your skills and interests.
Seva isn’t about grand gestures – it’s about weaving kindness and service into the everyday. By incorporating these simple acts of Seva, you’ll not only be helping others but also fostering a sense of purpose and connection in your busy life. So go forth, busy bee, and spread the Seva spirit! Share your thoughts in comments section below.
Leave a Reply