DASWANDH
Daswandh (literally: tithe or one-tenth), in Sikhism, means contribution of about one tenth of one’s income for the society.
Tithe is also one of the traditions of Judaism and Christianity. Every Jew and Christian is expected to contribute his tithe to Church for the expenses of Church (this tradition is almost dead now).
In Islam, there is the institution of Zakaat; and, it is 2.5% of one’s wealth (to be assessed every year before the first month every year i.e. Ramzaan month). Zakaat is to be spent for the poor and the needy sections of society.
Daswandh is an essential part of Sikh culture. This tradition had been started by Guru Nanak Sahib and was practiced by all the Gurus. When Guru Amar Das established 22 Manjis (diocese, missionary seats), he appointed Masands (in charges of the mission) also. Their duty was to collect offerings and the Daswandh of the Sikhs, to be made over to the Guru. The Guru would use this money to help the poor and the needy people.
Contributing was just a voluntary act. Later, Guru Gobind Singh made it mandatory for every Sikh. A Sikh must spend about one tenth of his income for religious, social or the other humanitarian purposes. If a Sikh can’t afford to contribute money, he/she may contribute his time or his services for the nation. For a Sikh, Daswandh is a debt that ought to be paid as early as possible. Daswandh makes one an integral part of brotherhood and a useful member of community in particular and humanity in general.
Those who earn and give some part as contribution (to the society),
Nanak says: they alone know the real path (of life).
(Guru Granth Sahib, p. 1245)
(Dr Harjinder Singh Dilgeer)