“My religion is based on truth and non-violence. Truth is my God. Non-violence is the means of realising Him.”
- 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
“My religion is based on truth and non-violence. Truth is my God. Non-violence is the means of realising Him.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi articulates the core of his spirituality and moral philosophy: the belief that truth (Satya) and nonviolence (Ahimsa) are inseparable. For Gandhi, truth was not merely an abstract concept, but a divine principle—a spiritual pursuit that guided his actions and decisions. He saw truth as the ultimate reality, the essence of life, and the fundamental force that bound all human beings. According to Gandhi, to seek truth was to seek God. It was not just a religious notion but a universal law that transcended cultures and creeds. In this sense, his religion was non-denominational; it was grounded in a universal pursuit of truth that all people could engage with, regardless of their faith background.
However, Gandhi emphasized that truth alone was not enough—nonviolence was the path through which one could attain the realization of truth. Nonviolence was more than just the absence of physical violence; it was an all-encompassing principle that extended to thoughts, words, and deeds. Ahimsa, for Gandhi, was about compassion, understanding, and respect for all living beings. He believed that the true practice of nonviolence required a purification of the heart, where one sought to love and serve others rather than dominate or harm them. This form of nonviolence was not passive but required active courage and moral strength to confront injustice through peaceful means.
In a modern context, Gandhi’s philosophy continues to inspire individuals and movements that seek social justice, peace, and equality. The interconnection of truth and nonviolence provides a framework for living ethically and conscientiously. Whether in personal relationships, political struggles, or environmental activism, this quote reminds us that living truthfully and acting nonviolently are not only ethical imperatives but also the means through which we can create a more just and harmonious world.
