Embracing Truth and Rejecting Violence: Essence of Gandhi’s Philosophy
By: SAQIB SARWAR MIR
Embracing Peace and Truth Rejecting Violence was the crux of Gandhi’s twin principles of Satya and Ahimsa. “In a gentle way, you can shake the world.” These powerful words from Mahatma Gandhi encapsulate the essence of his philosophy of truth (Satya) and non-violence (ahimsa). Truth and non-violence served as potent weapons in India’s fight for independence and Gandhi’s unwavering commitment to these principles inspired millions. Gandhian philosophy has had a significant impact beyond India’s borders. It has inspired countless individuals and movements around the world, advocating for social justice, equality, and non-violence. Gandhi’s principles have influenced leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Aung San Suu Kyi, who have embraced non-violent resistance in their struggles for freedom and equality. The principles of truth and non-violence continue to resonate globally as a powerful means of effecting positive change.
Mahatma Gandhi was a champion of non-violence which rejects all types of force. His philosophy of truth and non-violence was truly revolutionary. He believed that by embracing truth and practising non-violence, we can bring about profound social and political change. He saw truth as the ultimate weapon against injustice, and non-violence as the means to achieve it. “Truth never damages a cause that is just,” said Mahatma Gandhi. He believed that through peaceful resistance, we could challenge oppressive systems and create a more just and compassionate society. Truth and non-violence occupy an important place in the life of Mahatma Gandhi. These are two main tools he used in his practical life as well. According to him, truth and non-violence make a person pious, sympathetic and cooperative. Truth and non-violence are employed not only to solve national problems but it’s also to solve the international problems. In South Africa, this weapon was employed by Gandhi against cruel and injustice policies of the government. According to him, war is the product of misunderstanding between nations. Embrace truth, and reject violence. Truth and nonviolence constitute the heart of Gandhi’s philosophy.
He maintains his belief that evils like violence, tyranny and injustice arise on account of a neglect of the truth. In his understanding, we can’t conquer evil with evil, violence with violence, anger with anger; by doing this we are only adding fuel to the fire. “An eye for an eye ends up making the whole world blind,” he said.
Gandhian philosophy of truth and non-violence is based on the principle tha there are no opponents or enemies, but there are only wrong-doers. Non-violence, to him, is the means and truth is the end. These can’t be separated from each other. They are two sides of the same coin. Ahimsa (non-violence), for Gandhi, is the basic law of our being. That is why it can be used as the most effective principle for social action since it is in deep accord with the truth of man’s nature and corresponds to his innate desire for peace, justice, order, freedom and personal dignity. Since himsa (violence) degrades and corrupts man, to meet force with force and hatred with hatred only increases man’s progressive degeneration. Non-violence on the contrary heals and restores man’s nature while giving him a means to restore social order and justice. Ahimsa is not a policy for the seizure of power; it is a way of transforming relationships so as to bring about a peaceful transfer of power, affected freely and without compulsion by all concerned because all have come to recognize it as right. Gandhi believed in the power of non-violence because he saw it as a way to resolve conflicts peacefully and create lasting change without causing harm. He believed that violence only perpetuates more violence and that non-violence can bring about true understanding and reconciliation. Gandhi’s deep love for non-violence stemmed from his belief that it is not only a means to achieve political goals, but also a way of life.
He saw non-violence as a moral principle rooted in compassion, empathy, and respect for all beings. Gandhi believed that non-violence has the power to transform individuals, societies, and even nations, leading to lasting peace and harmony. Gandhi’s immense love for non-violence can be attributed to his firm belief that it is the most effective and ethical approach to address conflicts. Gandhi saw non-violence as a force that could bring about positive change while upholding human dignity and fostering understanding among people. Through non-violence, Gandhi aimed to create a world where justice, equality, and peace could prevail.
Gandhian philosophy and strategy has proven its power and effectiveness throughout history. Its practice in contemporary society can guide us towards a more peaceful and just world, emphasizing the importance of ethical means in achieving just ends. Spreading Gandhi’s philosophy of truth and non-violence is incredibly important in today’s world, which is often filled with violence. By promoting these principles, we can counteract the negativity and bring about positive change. Embracing truth and non-violence can help us resolve conflicts peacefully, foster understanding, and build a more compassionate society. Even in the face of violence, Gandhi’s teachings remind us that there is always a path towards peace and harmony. Let’s continue to spread his message and work towards a more peaceful world together. Spread positivity, and radiate kindness, as hebrightly said: “My religion is based on truth and non-violence. Truth is my God. Non-violence is the means of realizing Him”.
In my understanding, Gandhi’s philosophy of non-harming is a powerful and transformative approach to life. It reminds us of the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding in our interactions with others. By choosing non-violence, we can break the cycle of harm and foster a culture of peace and harmony. Gandhi’s teachings have personally inspired me to strive for non-harming in my own actions and to promote kindness and respect in all aspects of life. I believe that embracing Gandhi’s philosophy can lead us towards a more compassionate and just world
The writeup was originally written for the Intra-College Essay Competition on “Gandhi Ji’s Philosophy of Truth and non-Violence” organized by GDC Sogam on 19/09/2023 and was adjudged the best essay.
The author is pursuing graduation from Govt. Degree College Sogam (Lolab), Kupwara, and can be reached at [email protected]
