Virtues Promoted By Dharma – Seva

When the Dharmic virtues in Hindu Dharma are taken into consideration, “seva” holds a special position. It is among the most significant of all the virtues; “Seva” means “selfless service.” Several age-old Indian texts have elaborated on the importance of “Seva.”

• As is clear by the above definition, “Seva” has to be done without expecting any material benefits in return. Here, that is not the sole criterion. A genuine act of selfless service is something that does not even seek any form of recognition. The only thing that matters to an individual doing this kind of “seva” is whether their actions benefited the less fortunate people or life forms.

• As per Hindu philosophies, the purview of selfless service includes physical help, financial assistance, providing education, and emotional support.

• A broader view of Hindu philosophy tells us that “seva” is synonymous with “Karma Yoga,” which Lord Krishna explained in Bhagavad Gita. Karma Yoga urges individuals to perform their duties in alignment with their responsibilities, without attachment to the outcomes. It is also said that these kinds of seva and actions take an individual closer to God. Self-realization won’t be so tough for them to attain.

• Many ancient texts of Sanatana Dharma teach that the scope of “seva” is not confined only to selfless charitable acts. Seva has a spiritual angle to it. Selfless service helps the benefactor to feel an inner sense of satisfaction. It is different from the satisfaction one derives from the fulfillment of worldly desires. This is a sort of awareness that they are moving closer to the “Supreme Source” of the universe.

• When people do noble acts of service without any selfish motives, it indicates that they see the divinity latent in all living beings. This approach is immensely helpful in fostering virtues such as kindness, integrity, and self-restraint.

• “Seva,” according to Hinduism, includes a crucial facet. It encourages people to give more significance to the welfare of others and not to focus overly on personal interests. When an individual adopts this mindset, spiritual growth naturally follows.

• Doing “seva” is not as easy as it appears. Some people may find the work quite challenging, and it might take them some time to adjust. However, a true ‘sevak’ will persevere and not give up.
• It must be emphasized that when a person engages in an act of selfless service, they are given an opportunity for introspection. They are likely to carry out an honest self-analysis. This exercise will help them to become aware of their flaws, which can be promptly corrected.

• Even in the modern-day, there are many ways in which “seva” can be incorporated into our lives. People can serve as volunteers in non-profit organizations that work for various social causes. Contributing financially to noble and humane causes is one more way for us to do “seva.” The aspect of helping people like neighbors, friends, relatives, acquaintances, and even strangers is always there, too.

• When more and more people integrate selfless service into their lives, it leads to greater harmony in society. An individual, by following “Seva,” will be enabled to spread positivity in their social as well as professional circles. These individuals also inspire others to incorporate ‘seva’ into their daily lives.