 | ||
Selfless service or Seva in Sanskrit (Punjabi: ਸੇਵਾ) is a service which is performed without any expectation of result or award for performing it. Such services can be performed to benefit other human beings or society.
Contents
Religious significance
The idea of selfless service (seva also sewa) 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.
"Living creatures are nourished by food, and food is nourished by rain; rain itself is the water
of life, which comes from selfless worship and service." - Bhagavad Gita, 3.14
Usage
The term is used in military awards like, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), and institutions like Seva Foundation, Gandhi Seva Sadan, Seva Development, and Seva Bharati.