Sewa
Religious Studies: KS3, topic 2.4.8
Sewa
Selfless service
- Sewa means selfless service. It means helping others through acts of community service, charity and kindness.
- It must be shown without expecting any reward.
- Sewa is one of the most important values in Sikhi.
- By serving others, Sikhs are also serving Waheguru (God).
- Guru Nanak taught that good actions are better than empty words.
- Everyone deserves kindness and care.
Types
- Tan (Physical Service) → Helping with your body.
- Examples: cooking in the Langar, cleaning the Gurdwara, building homes, or helping the sick.
- Man (Mental Service) → Helping with your mind.
- Examples: teaching others, giving advice, praying for others, or using knowledge to help.
- Dhan (Material Service) → Helping with your possessions or money.
- Examples: donating to charity, sharing food, or providing for those in need.
Examples
- Sewa happens in the Langar, where everyone shares free food together. This shows equality.
- Many Sikhs volunteer in charities, hospitals, schools, and disaster relief.
- Gurdwaras usually offer food and shelter to anyone in need, regardless of their religion.
- During festivals like Vaisakhi, Sikhs often take part in community clean-ups and service projects.
Test yourself on Sewa
What does the word Sewa mean?
Which of these is an example of Man (mental Sewa)?
Which of these is an example of Tan (physical Sewa)?
Types of Sewa
What is correct about Sewa?