Meaning
Serving others is a good deed
Cultural Background
Historically, Gujarati business communities (Mahajans) believed that their wealth was a trust for the community. They funded schools, hospitals, and 'Chabutaras' (bird feeders) based on the principle of Paropkar. Jainism, which has a massive influence in Gujarat, emphasizes 'Ahimsa' (non-violence) and 'Karuna' (compassion). This proverb is often used to promote the Jain value of helping all living beings. Mahatma Gandhi's concept of 'Seva' (service) is a modern extension of this proverb. He believed that true religion is found in the service of the poor (Daridra Narayan). In many Gujarati villages, people celebrate birthdays or anniversaries by sponsoring a meal (Tithi Bhojan) for school children, citing 'Paropkar Punyanu Kaam.'
Use it to end an argument
If people are debating whether to help someone, saying this phrase usually ends the debate because no one wants to argue against 'Punya'.
Don't sound arrogant
When you help someone, don't say this about *yourself* too loudly. It's better when others say it about you, or when you say it to encourage others.
Meaning
Serving others is a good deed
Use it to end an argument
If people are debating whether to help someone, saying this phrase usually ends the debate because no one wants to argue against 'Punya'.
Don't sound arrogant
When you help someone, don't say this about *yourself* too loudly. It's better when others say it about you, or when you say it to encourage others.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word in the proverb.
પરોપકાર ____ કામ છે.
'Punyanu' (of merit) is the correct word that completes this moral proverb.
Which situation best fits the proverb 'પરોપકાર પુણ્યનું કામ છે'?
Choose the correct scenario:
The proverb refers to selfless help given to others.
Complete the dialogue with the correct phrase.
A: મેં આજે પક્ષીઓ માટે પાણીની કુંડી મૂકી. B: અરે વાહ! ____.
This is the natural way to praise a small act of kindness toward animals.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesપરોપકાર ____ કામ છે.
'Punyanu' (of merit) is the correct word that completes this moral proverb.
Choose the correct scenario:
The proverb refers to selfless help given to others.
A: મેં આજે પક્ષીઓ માટે પાણીની કુંડી મૂકી. B: અરે વાહ! ____.
This is the natural way to praise a small act of kindness toward animals.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsNo, while it has religious roots, it is used by everyone in Gujarat as a general moral guideline for being a good human being.
Absolutely! In Gujarati culture, helping animals (Jiva Daya) is considered a major form of Paropkar.
'Seva' is the act of service (often to elders or God), while 'Paropkar' is the broader concept of doing good for others.
Related Phrases
સેવા એ જ પરમો ધર્મ
similarService is the highest duty.
સ્વાર્થ વિનાનો પરમાર્થ
similarAltruism without selfishness.
પરપીડન એ જ પાપ
contrastHurting others is the only sin.
