Seva (ਸੇਵਾ) — selfless service without expectation of reward — is one of the three pillars of Sikh life, alongside Naam Japo (remember God) and Kirat Karo (honest work).
Types of Seva
- Tan Seva — Service with the body (physical work, langar, cleaning the Gurdwara)
- Man Seva — Service with the mind (learning, teaching, spreading Gurbani)
- Dhan Seva — Service with wealth (donating to the needy, community funds)
Langar — The Community Kitchen One of the most visible expressions of Seva is Langar — the free community kitchen found in every Gurdwara worldwide. Anyone, regardless of faith, caste, or status, sits together on the floor and shares a meal as equals. This tradition was established by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and formalized by Guru Amar Das Ji.
Seva as Spiritual Practice In Sikhism, Seva is not charity but a spiritual discipline. By serving others, the ego (haumai) is dissolved. The Guru Granth Sahib teaches: "Vich duniya sev kamaie, taa dargah baisan paiye." — Perform selfless service in the world, and you will be honoured in God's court.