Gandhi, the Man Themes

Gandhi, the Man Themes

Satyagraha

Satyagraha is a word Gandhi formed using two other Sanskrit words: "satya", which means truth, and "agraha" which means firmness or force. His idea was a steadfast adherence to truth that would not be deterred by threat of force or, in particular, law. His call was for the people of South Africa and India to so dedicate themselves to revealing the truths of fair treatment, just law, love, forgiveness and responsibility for one's fellow man that when those virtues were threatened, no amount of self-interest or threat from authority would make them give in to living anything less than a devoted and selfless life. He dedicated himself to disciplines that cleansed him of selfishness and attachment to his ego or his possessions as a first step, and called all of his followers to do likewise. From there, he gave himself to meditation on the Hindu book...
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