Jazbe-i-Esaar: Spirit of Sacrifice

Spirit of Self-Sacrifice, also called Jazbe-i-Esaar in Urdu, is a timeless and collective concept, central to the human experience and deeply rooted in our cultural, social and personal narratives. At its core, sacrifice involves giving up something valuable for the sake of something or someone else deemed more important or worthy. This act of selflessness transcends personal desires, emphasizing the well-being and good of others; reflecting the highest ideals of human compassion and commitment.

What is the essence of self-sacrifice? That too when the world around has turned into a selfish sink? Despite cynicism that moans “Wafa Ikhlaas Qurbani Mohabbat , Ab In Lafzon Ka Pechha Kuin Karay Hum” (Jaun Eliya), the spirit of sacrifice exists. It is still about prioritizing the greater good over individual interests. It still represents a reflective sense of duty and empathy, where personal loss is willingly embraced to support, protect or uplift others.

Self-Sacrifice or Selflessness is not merely an act of giving; it is an act of insightful moral and ethical significance, highlighting the values of charity, community and altruism. It is through sacrifice that we connect with others on a deeper level, building a society grounded in mutual respect and support.

Selflessness manifests in various forms, each reflecting different dimensions of human experience. Personal sacrifice involves individuals foregoing their own comfort, pleasure or interests for the benefit of others. This can be seen in parents who sacrifice their time and resources to provide for their children, or individuals who dedicate their lives to humanitarian causes, putting the needs of others before their own.

Material sacrifice pertains to the relinquishment of physical possessions or wealth. Philanthropists who donate large portions of their fortunes to support education, healthcare and social justice epitomize this type of sacrifice. The aim is to alleviate suffering and promote the greater good.

Emotional selflessness is often the most intense and personal. It involves enduring emotional pain or hardship to care and support your loved ones. This can include caregivers who dedicate their lives to looking after chronically ill family members, or individuals who make difficult decisions to ensure the happiness and stability of those they care about.

Many people make professional sacrifices by choosing careers that may not offer substantial financial rewards but provide significant social contributions. Teachers, social workers and healthcare professionals often exemplify this form of sacrifice, prioritizing service over personal gain.

Spiritual selflessness involves acts of devotion and piety that transcend material concerns. This can include acts of worship like fasting and other religious practices that may help in strengthening one’s faith and connection to the divine. However, in the broader sense, it reflects a commitment to higher self, beyond mere acts of worship....

 Gasi Nei Saaf Dil Dete Laaf Saasa

Nateo Chate Aabi Zam Zam Toti Kya Gov…

Agar Nei Jazbe-i-Esaar Aasi,

Dohas Par Te Ism-e-Azam Toti Kya Gov....

Exploring the concept of self-sacrifice through unconventional lenses can yield fascinating perceptive. Consider the sacrifices involved in artistic and creative pursuits. Artists, writers and painters etc often sacrifice financial stability, social acceptance and personal relationships to pursue their passions and share their unique visions with the world. Their sacrifices enrich our cultural landscape and inspire future generations.

Humans are inherently symbols of sacrifice. Throughout history, countless individuals have made significant sacrifices for the advancement of society and the betterment of humanity. The selfless acts of everyday unsung heroes illustrate the depth of human commitment to causes greater than themselves.

Rumi among many of his precious pearls of wisdom has summed up the all-encompassing spirit of sacrifice unequivocally:

“In compassion and grace, be like the sun.

In concealing other’s faults, be like the night.

In generosity and helping others, be like a river.

In anger and fury, be like dead.

In modesty and humility, be like the earth.

In tolerance, be like the sea.

Either appear as you are,

 or be as you appear….”