Work as Worship in India

Work has unpleasant connotations in the modern world.

Post-colonial India has copied many bad habits of our former rulers, and exaggerated them as well. Working hours per week for salaried Indians keep reducing, and there are additional holidays for petty reasons.

The first of every May is an especially tragic holiday for India, except for States that were formed on this day. How can anyone celebrate Labor Day by resting?

Indian Saints throughout the ages have extolled the virtues of work. It is a path to salvation and a sacred duty as well. We have to work to the very best of our abilities, without attachment to the fruits of our endeavors. Work gives us meaningful ways of giving tangible forms to our most sublime desires. It is a strong bridge to God. The Almighty keeps watch over all the work we do. None of us can escape final books of account.

Scripture helps mortals see daily work in perspective. We may have to go to war and kill enemies of our countries. Our work may involve menial tasks. There may be temptations to cheat and to lie. We may feel physically weak. There are many excuses and evils surrounding work, though work itself is pure and a gift from God. Daily recitation is like daily cleansing. As soap and water remove the epidermis of yesterday, so does Scripture cleanse the mind and refresh the Spirit.

This is why the Disciples of the Living Guru recite the Japji Sahib every morning. Please do the same and share in the eternal and unified spirituality of Mother India.

Today's post is dedicated to all Indians wherever you may be. Please recite the Japji Sahib, another Scripture, or even your manifesto. Do revere work in the way of our common ancestors. Spread this credo to the generations that must follow us, for India is without end or beginning.

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May the Living Guru Keep Watch Over You For All Time.