“I have also seen children successfully surmounting the effects of an evil inheritance. That is due to purity being an inherent attribute of the soul.”
- October 2, 1869 – January 30, 1948
- British Indian Empire
- Lawyer, religious leader, social activist, political leader
- As a leader of the Indian independence movement, he advocated non-violent resistance (Satyagraha) and contributed to India’s independence from Britain.
Quote
“I have also seen children successfully surmounting the effects of an evil inheritance. That is due to purity being an inherent attribute of the soul.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi speaks to the resilience of the human spirit, particularly in the face of negative influences or harmful legacies. He observes that even children, who might be born into difficult circumstances or with a history of negative inheritance—whether genetic, cultural, or environmental—are capable of overcoming these challenges. According to Gandhi, the key to this resilience is the purity inherent in the soul, which allows individuals to transcend their circumstances and find their own path to virtue and righteousness. Gandhi believed that at the core of every human being lies an inherent goodness or purity that can guide them towards overcoming adversity, no matter the external pressures or past traumas.
The idea of purity of the soul is a central theme in Gandhi’s teachings. He viewed the soul as essentially innocent, undefiled, and capable of moral growth. This belief was rooted in his understanding of ahimsa (nonviolence) and the transformative power of truth. Even when children are exposed to harmful influences, Gandhi believed that their inner purity—often expressed through innocence, honesty, and love—could enable them to rise above the limitations imposed by their upbringing. He saw this as a testament to the power of human nature to heal and to choose the right path, regardless of the flaws and mistakes of the past.
In the context of modern life, this quote speaks to the power of personal transformation and the ability of individuals to break cycles of harm. Whether through education, self-awareness, or spiritual growth, people can overcome the effects of negative legacies such as poverty, prejudice, or violence. Gandhi’s words resonate in the struggle for social justice and personal healing—reminding us that every individual, no matter their background, has the potential to rise above inherited challenges and to cultivate a life of peace, integrity, and love. In this light, the idea of an inherent purity of the soul offers hope for personal and societal renewal, showing that innocence, goodness, and moral clarity can ultimately triumph over even the most entrenched legacies of evil or suffering.
