PsychologyJuly 4, 2026
seva
/ˈseɪvə/
Definition
The act of performing selfless service, particularly for the benefit of others in need.
Etymology
The word originates from the Sanskrit word 'seva', meaning service or labor. It entered English primarily through Indian cultural and religious contexts, where it denotes the concept of voluntary, selfless work performed without expectation of reward.
In the news
The term is used to describe the humanitarian focus of Srishti Sardana’s research lab, which aims to provide mental health support to vulnerable, trauma-affected populations. It frames the lab's mission as a selfless commitment to restoring dignity and humanity to those living on the margins.
Psychology prof’s mental health lab has a global humanitarian health mission – Letters & Science
Read the full article ↗UW-Milwaukee