“Man is supposed to be the maker of his destiny. It is only partly true. He can make his destiny, only in so far as he is allowed by the Great Power.”
- 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
“Man is supposed to be the maker of his destiny. It is only partly true. He can make his destiny, only in so far as he is allowed by the Great Power.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi reflects on the relationship between human agency and divine will in shaping one’s destiny. He acknowledges that humans have the ability to influence their own lives through their actions, decisions, and efforts, but he also emphasizes that this ability is limited by forces beyond their control, particularly the “Great Power”—a reference to God, fate, or the universe. Gandhi is reminding us that while we have the capacity to make choices and work toward our goals, there are greater, invisible forces at play that shape the course of events. This view aligns with Gandhi’s deep spirituality and belief in the divine as an essential force in the world, guiding individuals and humanity as a whole.
This concept of destiny and divine intervention was central to Gandhi’s approach to life and struggle. He often spoke of his own actions as being guided by God’s will and tried to align his own self-discipline and sacrifice with what he believed to be his divine calling. However, Gandhi also firmly believed in the importance of self-effort, and he encouraged individuals to take responsibility for their own actions and not passively await divine intervention. The balance he suggests here between human effort and divine will is a reminder that while we must act with determination and purpose, we must also recognize our limitations and have humility in the face of forces beyond our understanding.
In the modern context, this quote invites reflection on the limits of control in our own lives. It encourages us to pursue our goals and dreams with earnestness and determination but to also recognize the uncertainties and unexpected events that shape our futures. It speaks to the tension between free will and fate, reminding us that while we are responsible for our actions, there are circumstances that we cannot always control. Whether in the context of personal growth, career aspirations, or social change, Gandhi’s words suggest that we must remain adaptable, humble, and open to the possibility that the course of our lives may unfold in ways we cannot predict or fully control.
