“It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver.”
- 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
“It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi underscores the importance of health over material wealth, suggesting that the true essence of a rich and fulfilling life lies not in gold and silver—symbols of material success—but in the physical and mental well-being of the individual. Gandhi’s belief in the primacy of health aligns with his broader philosophy of living a life of simplicity and self-sufficiency, where the pursuit of material wealth is not the ultimate goal. Instead, the true wealth of life, according to Gandhi, is found in the ability to live fully, healthily, and with purpose, free from the burdens of excessive consumption and greed.
Historically, this quote reflects Gandhi’s holistic approach to life, which emphasized not only physical health but also mental and spiritual well-being. Gandhi believed that a person’s true happiness and fulfillment were achieved through a balance of healthy living, inner peace, and moral integrity. He often spoke about the need to lead a balanced life—one that honored the body and mind equally and avoided overindulgence in material desires. The pursuit of good health was not simply about avoiding illness, but about cultivating a lifestyle that nurtured the body, mind, and soul.
In today’s world, this quote remains relevant as it encourages a shift in focus from the accumulation of wealth to the nurturing of health. In a society that often places a premium on material success and financial achievement, Gandhi reminds us that health—whether through exercise, nutrition, or mental peace—is the most valuable asset a person can have. Without good health, all the riches in the world are of little value. This perspective calls for a reevaluation of our priorities and the recognition that true wealth is the foundation for a life of happiness and contentment.