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What is the role of seva (service) in Pushti Marg Vaishnavism?

In Pushti Marg Vaishnavism, the concept of seva, or service, plays a crucial role in the spiritual journey of a devotee. It is considered an essential part of one's devotion to God and is seen as a means of attaining ultimate liberation.

According to Vallabhacharya, the founder of Pushti Marg Vaishnavism, seva is not just limited to physical acts of service, but it also encompasses the attitude and intention behind those actions. He believed that true seva is selfless and motivated solely by love and devotion towards God.

One of the primary ways in which seva is practiced in Pushti Marg is through the service of the deity, Shri Krishna. Devotees offer various forms of seva to the deity, such as dressing, decorating, and feeding Him, with the belief that these acts of service will bring them closer to God. This practice is known as "seva-puja" and is seen as a way to express love and devotion towards God.

Apart from seva-puja, seva is also practiced in the form of serving the community and society. Pushti Marg emphasizes the idea of "seva-sambandh," which means serving others as a way to serve God. This can include acts of charity, helping those in need, and actively participating in community service projects.

The practice of seva in Pushti Marg is not limited to only physical acts but also extends to one's thoughts and intentions. Vallabhacharya believed that even the desire to serve others and the intention to do good is a form of seva. This highlights the importance of cultivating a selfless and compassionate mindset in addition to performing physical acts of service.

Moreover, seva is seen as a means of purifying one's mind and heart. By engaging in selfless service, devotees are able to detach themselves from their ego and desires, and focus solely on serving God and others. This helps in developing a sense of humility and surrender towards God, which is essential in the path of devotion.

In conclusion, seva holds a significant place in Pushti Marg Vaishnavism, as it is considered an integral part of one's spiritual journey. It is a way to express love and devotion towards God, serve the community and society, and purify one's mind and heart. By practicing seva, devotees are able to cultivate a selfless and compassionate mindset, which ultimately leads to the attainment of ultimate liberation.