“Are creeds such simple things like the clothes which a man can change at will and put on at will? Creeds are such for which people live for ages and ages.”
- 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
“Are creeds such simple things like the clothes which a man can change at will and put on at will? Creeds are such for which people live for ages and ages.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi challenges the notion that creeds—or deeply held beliefs—are interchangeable or easily changed, as one might change clothes. Gandhi argues that creeds are far more significant and enduring than superficial choices; they are the fundamental guiding principles by which people live their lives. A creed, in Gandhi’s view, is not a temporary or convenient choice but a commitment to a set of beliefs that can define one’s identity and actions for a lifetime or even for generations. People do not live by creeds that are merely adopted for convenience or fashion; they live by those that are deeply embedded in their hearts and minds, shaping their moral and spiritual lives. This belief highlights Gandhi’s lifelong commitment to truth, nonviolence, and self-discipline as central tenets of his creed, which he viewed as timeless and essential for personal and social transformation.
The quote also underscores Gandhi’s belief that creeds are not static or arbitrary but are bound by deep, personal conviction and are often passed down through generations. These creeds become part of an individual’s core identity, reflecting their values and purpose in life. Gandhi himself lived by a set of spiritual and moral principles that transcended religious boundaries. For him, the core values of truth, nonviolence, and self-sufficiency were not merely intellectual exercises but practices that shaped his daily life and actions. Gandhi saw these principles as universal, deeply embedded in the fabric of human existence, rather than being easily discarded or switched depending on circumstances.
In the contemporary world, this quote serves as a reminder that creeds—whether they are religious, philosophical, or ethical—carry profound weight and should be treated with the respect and seriousness they deserve. It challenges the growing trend of temporary ideologies and superficial commitments that lack depth or lasting significance. Gandhi’s words encourage us to carefully consider the beliefs we hold and how they shape our actions over time. True creeds, in his view, are not those we change easily but those that guide us through life, helping us navigate moral dilemmas and sustain our integrity even in difficult times. His call to commitment and conviction encourages individuals today to live by their principles and not be swayed by momentary convenience or the pressures of an ever-changing world.
