DAYA (usually spelt data in Punjabi), from Skt. Day meaning to sympathize with, to have pity on, stands for compassion, sympathy. It means `suffering in the suffering of all beings.` It is deeper and more positive in sentiment than sympathy. Daya, cognitively, observes alien pain; affectively, it gets touched by it and moves with affectional responses for the sufferer; and co-natively, it moves one to act mercifully, pityingly, with kindness and forgiveness.
Daya is antithetical to hinsa (violence).One imbued with daya “chooses to die himself rather than cause others to die,” says Guru Nanak (GG, 356). Daya is a divine quality and a moral virtue highly prized in all religious traditions. In the Sikh Scripture, mahadaial (super compassionate), daiapati (lord of compassion), daial dev (merciful god), karima, rahima (the merciful one), etc., have been used as attributive names of God (GG, 249, 991, 1027, 727). In Sikh ethics, too, daya is, inter alia, a basic moral requirement, a moral vow.
“Keep your heart content and cherish compassion for all beings; this way alone can your holy vow be fulfilled” (GG, 299). At the human level, one can comprehend feeling of another`s anguish, but as a theological doctrine it is to risk allowing suffering in God`s life.This has often caused much controversy in theological circles. God does not suffer in the sense of pain from evil as evil, but may suffer compassion (daya) as bearing the pain of others to relieve them (of pain as also of evil).
That is why at the time of Babar`s invasion of India, Guru Nanak, when he witnessed the suffering of people, complained to God: eti mar pal kurlane tain ki dardu na aia So much agony were they put through So much anguish did they suffer Were you not, 0 God, moved to compassion ? (GG, 360) The Guru, in the image of God, is also daYa/ purakh (compassionate being) and bakhasand (forgiver) GG, 681 Daya is a virtue of the mind. In Indian thought, virtues are classified into (i) those of the body: dana (charity), paritrana (succouring those in distress), paricharana (social service); (ii) those of speech: satya (veracity), hitovachana (beneficial speech), priyavachana (sweet speech), svadhyaya (reciting of Scriptures) and (iii) those of the mind which, besides daya, also include aparigraha (unworldliness) and sraddha (reverence and piety).
In Sikh thought daya is considered the highest virtue: athsathi tirath sagal punn jia daia parvanu The merit of pilgrimages of holy places sixty-eight, and that of other virtues besides, equal not compassion to living beings. (GG, 136) Daya, in fact, is considered to be Truth in action: sachu ta paru janiai ja sikh sachi lei ; daiajanaijia kikichhu punnu danu karei Truth dawns when truthful counsel is accepted, Seeking familiarity with compassion, ne gives away virtuous charity. (GG, 468) Daya is, in reality, true action or action par excellence (karm sar) as are truth and contentment, the other two high virtues (GG, 51).
References :
1. Sher Singh, The Philosophy of Sikhism. Lahore, 1944
2. Nripinder Singh, The Sikh Moral Tradition. Delhi, 1990
3. Avtar Singh, Ethics of the Sikhs. Patiala, 1970
Daya: The Essence of Compassion in Sikhism
In Sikhism, Daya (compassion) is one of the core virtues that every individual is encouraged to embody. It represents the ability to empathize with the suffering of others and take selfless action to alleviate it. Deeply intertwined with the Sikh principles of service (seva), humility, and equality, Daya is seen as a divine quality that reflects Waheguru’s boundless love and care for all beings.
Spiritual Significance of Daya
In Sikh philosophy, Daya is not merely an emotional response; it is an essential aspect of spiritual growth. It is considered one of the foundational qualities necessary to live a life aligned with the teachings of the Guru. Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, emphasized the importance of developing a compassionate heart to see the divine in all beings and transcend the ego (haumai).
The Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, highlights Daya as one of the key virtues that leads to liberation (Mukti). Compassion is not only an act of kindness but also an acknowledgment of the unity of creation. When one acts with Daya, they recognize the shared divine essence in everyone and live in harmony with Waheguru’s will (Hukam).
Practical Application of Daya
Seva (Selfless Service): Compassion motivates Sikhs to engage in seva, whether it’s volunteering at a langar (community kitchen), providing aid to those in need, or standing up for social justice. Acts of service rooted in compassion create a more equitable and caring society.
Empathy and Understanding: Daya encourages individuals to approach others with empathy, patience, and understanding. It fosters relationships based on mutual respect and love, breaking down barriers of division and prejudice.
Compassion in Action: Sikhism teaches that true Daya goes beyond mere feelings of pity—it requires action. Whether it’s helping someone in distress, supporting the vulnerable, or advocating for the rights of the oppressed, compassion must translate into deeds.
Daya and Other Virtues
Daya is closely connected with other Sikh virtues, such as:
- Santokh (Contentment): Compassion flourishes when one is content and free from greed or selfish desires.
- Nimrata (Humility): A compassionate heart is rooted in humility, recognizing that all are equal in the eyes of Waheguru.
- Pyar (Love): Love for humanity and the divine is the driving force behind acts of compassion.
Modern Relevance of Daya
In today’s fast-paced world, where societal divisions and individualism often overshadow community welfare, the principle of Daya serves as a beacon of hope. It inspires people to reconnect with their shared humanity, embrace inclusivity, and work towards alleviating suffering. Compassion is essential not only in personal interactions but also in addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation.
Conclusion
Daya is a timeless and universal value that lies at the heart of Sikhism. It reflects the Sikh commitment to living a life of empathy, love, and service. By cultivating Daya, individuals align themselves with the divine will and contribute to a more compassionate and harmonious world. In embodying this virtue, one not only uplifts others but also experiences spiritual growth and fulfillment.
