“I think it is the height of ignorance to believe that the sexual act is an independent function necessary like sleeping or eating. Seeing, therefore, that I did not desire more children, I began to strive after self-control. There was endless difficulty in the task.”
- 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 think it is the height of ignorance to believe that the sexual act is an independent function necessary like sleeping or eating. Seeing, therefore, that I did not desire more children, I began to strive after self-control. There was endless difficulty in the task.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi challenges the common notion that sexual activity is a purely physical or instinctual need, comparable to basic functions like eating or sleeping. Instead, he sees it as a function that requires moral restraint and self-control, especially when not driven by a natural desire for procreation. Gandhi often spoke about the importance of celibacy and self-discipline in achieving spiritual growth and aligning oneself with higher principles. His pursuit of self-control was not just about physical abstinence but also about overcoming the attachment to worldly desires, which he believed could cloud one’s judgment and spiritual clarity.
Gandhi’s struggle with self-control was a key part of his personal and philosophical journey, illustrating the difficulty of mastering desires and achieving inner peace. For him, the ability to master one’s passions was critical to becoming a more virtuous and disciplined person. Gandhi’s perspective on sexuality was grounded in his broader philosophy of nonviolence (Ahimsa), which extended to how he believed one should conduct all aspects of life, including the physical and emotional realms. He saw the sexual act as a powerful force that, when misdirected, could lead to attachment and distraction from one’s higher purpose.
In a modern context, this quote serves as a reminder to consider how our desires and actions align with our deeper values. While Gandhi’s views may seem extreme by contemporary standards, his focus on self-discipline and mindful control can be applied to any area of life where we seek to overcome base impulses in favor of higher goals. His words challenge us to rethink our relationship with physical desires and to approach them with intention rather than blind indulgence.
