Word Of The Day: Tap Parvaa?

??? ?????? (tap parvaa?)
Meaning: approved and accepted austerity, penance.

Quote:
?????? ?? ???? � ??? ??? ???????
satgur kee sevaa�� ih tap parvaa?.
Practising what the true Guru has advised/instructed is the acceptable and approved penance.
– Guru Amar Das Sahib, Guru Granth Sahib, Page 948

Message: There are various ways of undergoing penance and austere practices to control one�s mind or receive divine blessings. In Sikh tradition, however, practising the Guru�s teachings and leading a righteous, truthful and meaningful life is the most revered practice.

If we reflect upon it, we soon realize that undertaking penance is still an easier option than working hard, earning an honest living, cultivating love and care for the people around us, sharing what we have with them and still being content, humble and grateful. Hence, treading such a path as this is the true penance, which is accepted and approved in the eyes of the Divine. One who practises these receives true peace and happiness.

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Etymology: From Pali tapo (austerity, torment), from Sanskrit tapas (religious austerity, heat, pain), which comes from Sanskrit tap (to heat, to shine, to suffer, to strive, to repent). Comparable to Russian tap (to warm, to heat, to melt) and Persian tapeedan, from tap (to heat, to writhe).