How can Sikhs balance the pursuit of work and spiritual practices?
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Respected Anmol ji,
Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh!
You have asked a question as to how can Sikhs balance the balance of work and spiritual practices?
As understood by the undersigned, three pillars on which Sikhism stands are Kirat Karo (Honest earning), Naam Japo (Be one with Akalpurakh) and Wand Chako (Share with the needy). Therefore, in Sikhism, the work and spirituality go hand in hand. No special rituals are required to be performed.
The Sikh is required to imbibe teachings of Guru Granth Sahib and develop qualities in him so that he remains one with Akalpurakh and Guru, who are embodiment of each other.
A Sikh is required to get rid of falsehood (ਕੂੜ) and become a truthful person (ਸਚਿਆਰ), a quality which will enable him to remain one with Akalpurakh/Guru. Once he achieves that then he will live a disciplined life, will be watchful of his deeds all throughout his life because Karam Khand is the door to Sachkhand (37th Pauri of Jap Bani). He will get rid of vices and become Jeevan Mukat (ਜੀਵਨ ਮੁਕਤ) because there is no concept of salvation/emancipation after death in Sikhism.
As understood by the undersigned, the Sikh is not required to sit for hours to perform any special spiritual practices. He has to mould his entire life as per teachings of Guru Granth Sahib.The Guru teaches us:-
ਸਲੋਕੁ ਮਃ ੫ ॥ ਉਦਮੁ ਕਰੇਦਿਆ ਜੀਉ ਤੂੰ ਕਮਾਵਦਿਆ ਸੁਖ ਭੁੰਚੁ ॥ ਧਿਆਇਦਿਆ ਤੂੰ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਮਿਲੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਉਤਰੀ ਚਿੰਤ ॥੧॥ {ਪੰਨਾ 522}
Hope it helps. If you have any further questions, please do ask. If you find any deficiencies, please point out the same, for improvement in future.
Regards,
Your Brother
Many Thanks
The main spiritual practice is to see the creator everywhere, in everybody, and in every act. Sikhs can follow these tenets while working as the mind needs to be connected with the creator.
ਹਾਥ ਪਾਉ ਕਰਿ ਕਾਮੁ ਸਭੁ ਚੀਤੁ ਨਿਰੰਜਨ ਨਾਲਿ
With your hands and feet, do all your work, but let your consciousness remain with the Immaculate Lord.
Many Thanks