n this article, we will delve into Saakhi #20 of the Sikha Di Bhagat Maala series, where we will explore the three types of Sewa as explained by Guru Angad Dev Ji Maharaj, which serve as pathways to liberation and inner peace. Through a sacred conversation with three GurSikhs, Guru Sahib imparted the timeless wisdom of serving others with the body, wealth, and mind.
Bhai Lal Ji, Bhai Durga Ji and Bhai Jivanda Ji
ਲਾਲ ਸੁ ਲਾਲੂ ਬੁਧਿਵਾਨ ਦੁਰਗਾ ਜੀਵਦ ਪਰਉਪਕਾਰੀ।
Bhai Lalu, Bhai Durga and Jivanda were gems among the wisemen and all three were altruists.
The Question of Sewa
These three GurSikhs came to the sanctuary of Guru Angad Dev Ji Maharaj and asked :“Sache Patshah, how can we be liberated from this world? How can our suffering be destroyed? How can we live in peace?” Guru Sahib gave them Updesh (teaching) that there is nothing greater than doing Sewa.
The Three Types of Sewa in Kaljug
Guru Angad Dev Ji taught that there is no deed greater than serving others. In this Kaljug, the only remaining pillar of Dharam is Daan (charity), and there are three ways to do Sewa.
ਤਨੁ ਮਨੁ ਧਨੁ ਸਭੁ ਸਉਪਿ ਗੁਰ ਕਉ ਹੁਕਮਿ ਮੰਨਿਐ ਪਾਈਐ ॥
Surrender body, mind, wealth, and everything to the Guru; obey the Order of His Will, and you will find Him.
1.Tan Di Sewa (Physical Service) -
This means physically serving others, examples include : washing utensils or cleaning shoes in Gurdwara, giving out Langar and serving the needy, whether Sikh or non-Sikh. Even listening to someone’s pain and comforting them in distress is also a Sewa that carries great merit.
2.Dhan Di Sewa (Service through Wealth) -
Giving 10% of the earnings as Dasvand to charity is service through wealth. Examples include : supporting Gurdwaras and Langar, funding the education of children and helping the poor and needy.
3.Mann Di Sewa (Service through the Mind) -
To serve with the mind, one must first purify it. Guru Sahib explained that impure intentions arise through thoughts, words and actions.
Many people may speak kind words and do good deeds, but if their thoughts are not pure, it is hypocrisy. True Mann Di Sewa involves:
- Keeping the mind free from negative thoughts
- Having goodwill towards others, even those who may have wronged us
- Sharing Gyaan (spiritual wisdom) with others
When we learn something valuable from Gurbani, our duty is to share that knowledge and help purify the minds of others. Guru Sahib taught that there is no greater Sewa than guiding others towards righteousness.
Liberation through Sewa
Guru Angad Dev Ji instructed the three Gursikhs to engage in these three types of Sewa—through body, wealth, and mind. By sincerely following this path, they attained liberation. By purifying our intentions, helping others with our body, sharing our resources, and spreading wisdom, we can contribute to the well-being of others and earn spiritual liberation.