Type of Word:
Noun
Pronunciation:
- British English: /ˈkɑː ˈseɪvə/ (KAR SAY-vah)
- U.S. English: /ˈkɑːr ˈseɪvə/ (KAR SAY-vah)
Rhyming Words:
Nirvana, lava, java, guava
Etymology:
The term Kar Seva originates from Punjabi and Hindi, combining kar (hands or deeds) and seva (selfless service). Rooted in Sikhism, the phrase signifies voluntary work performed selflessly, often as an act of religious devotion. The concept aligns with the broader Sikh principle of seva, emphasizing humility and service to humanity.
Meaning & Use:
Kar Seva refers to the voluntary manual labor performed in the service of a religious or community cause, particularly in Sikhism. This service often involves:
- Construction, restoration, or maintenance of temples (gurudwaras), such as the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
- Broader community services, including providing meals, cleaning public spaces, or disaster relief.
- A spiritual practice that fosters humility, equality, and selflessness.
Examples in Context:
- “The community gathered for kar seva to restore the gurudwara after the storm.”
- “During the kar seva at the Golden Temple, volunteers worked tirelessly to clean the sacred pond.”
- “Kar seva extends beyond religious spaces, reflecting the Sikh commitment to serving humanity.”
Quotations:
- “The Kar Sewa work of the Golden Temple, Amritsar has been recommenced… and is being pushed on with great zeal and vigour.” — Khalsa Advocate, 1923
- “A huge procession by nearly 100,000 people marked the inauguration of the ‘Kar Seva’ ceremony at the Golden Temple today.” — Times of India, 1973
- “Sikhs have a long-standing tradition of performing Kar Seva.” — Herald (Goa), 2014
Synonyms:
- Voluntary service
- Selfless labor
- Devotional service
- Community service
Related Words:
Seva, langar (community kitchen), seva bhavana (spirit of service), altruism
Cultural Significance:
In Sikhism, kar seva is not merely an act of labor but a profound expression of humility, equality, and devotion. It emphasizes physical work as a means to connect with the divine, promote communal harmony, and serve humanity selflessly.
Conclusion:
Kar seva is a cornerstone of Sikh practice and philosophy, exemplifying the community’s deep commitment to service and equality. From temple restoration to disaster relief, it transcends physical labor to become a spiritual act, fostering unity and compassion. This tradition continues to inspire individuals and communities worldwide, showcasing the enduring power of selfless service.
