“A vow is a purely religious act which cannot be taken in a fit of passion. It can be taken only with a mind purified and composed and with God as witness.”
- 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
“A vow is a purely religious act which cannot be taken in a fit of passion. It can be taken only with a mind purified and composed and with God as witness.”
Explanation
In this quote, Gandhi emphasizes the sacred nature of a vow, presenting it as a commitment that goes beyond mere words or fleeting emotions. A vow is not something to be taken hastily or under the influence of strong emotions like anger or passion, because these can cloud judgment and undermine the sincerity of the promise. Instead, a vow should arise from a clear, composed mind, free from impulsive reactions. Gandhi also underscores the role of God as the witness to such an act, suggesting that a vow is not just a personal promise but a moral and spiritual commitment that holds divine significance.
This aligns with Gandhi’s broader philosophy that true spiritual acts—whether prayer, vows, or other commitments—are deeply connected to inner purity and self-discipline. A vow taken in haste or without proper reflection is insincere and likely to be broken. True vows are made from a place of deep reflection, grounded in conviction and guided by higher principles.
In modern terms, the quote can be seen as a reminder that important decisions—especially those involving commitments or promises—should be made with deliberation and not driven by fleeting emotions. It speaks to the importance of calm reflection, particularly when making life-changing promises, and ensures that our actions are aligned with our values and spiritual beliefs.
