“Justice that love gives is a surrender, justice that law gives is a punishment.”
- 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.
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Quote
“Justice that love gives is a surrender, justice that law gives is a punishment.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi contrasts two forms of justice: one rooted in love and surrender, and the other rooted in law and punishment. He emphasizes that true justice, driven by compassion and understanding, is not about enforcing retribution or punitive measures, but about forgiving and surrendering one’s own grievances. In contrast, legal justice, which operates through the courts and law enforcement, typically focuses on punishing the wrongdoer to restore balance and uphold societal order.
Gandhi’s vision of justice, heavily influenced by his commitment to non-violence (ahimsa) and truth (satya), holds that when love is the driving force behind justice, it seeks the well-being of both the victim and the offender, aiming for reconciliation rather than retribution. This form of justice involves surrendering personal desires for revenge and instead allowing for healing and personal transformation. It is a higher form of justice that goes beyond the letter of the law to the spirit of humanity.
In contemporary times, Gandhi’s perspective challenges us to reconsider our approach to justice, especially in criminal justice systems. His philosophy suggests that instead of focusing solely on punishment and deterrence, we should also prioritize rehabilitation, forgiveness, and the restoration of individuals. This can create a more humane and just society, where the focus is on the reformation of offenders and the healing of victims, rather than simply applying the law to extract revenge.
