SikhPathThe Guru's Word
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Serve Without Seeking Reward

Do your work and serve others, but let go of craving for the results.

Guru Granth SahibGuru Granth Sahib · Ang 26

ਵਿਚਿ ਦੁਨੀਆ ਸੇਵ ਕਮਾਈਐ ਤਾ ਦਰਗਹ ਬੈਸਣੁ ਪਾਈਐ

Vich dunee-aa sev kamaa-ee-ai, taa dargeh baisaṇ paa-ee-ai

English

Serve selflessly in the world, and you earn a seat in the Court of God.

Ekam (simplified)

Punjabi meaning coming soon

Common thread

Act with love, serve freely, and release the need for reward — that is true freedom.

Echo

The Upanishad and Gita teach action without attachment; Sikhi gives it a name and a practice — sevā, selfless service.

📖 A story to understand

During battle, Bhai Kanhaiya carried water to the wounded — friend and enemy alike. Accused of helping the foe, he said he saw no enemy, only the same Light shining in every suffering face. The Guru honoured him for it.

Traditional sakhi / story (simplified retelling)