Question

What is meant by Satyagraha? What were the views of Mahatma Gandhi about Satyagraha?

Hint:

Satyagraha was not just a political weapon but a philosophy of life that emphasized non-violence and truth as the highest values in all actions.

Answer 1

Satyagraha is a term coined by Mahatma Gandhi, which is derived from two Sanskrit words: "Satya" (truth) and "Agraha" (insistence or firmness). Satyagraha is the practice of non-violent resistance to achieve social or political goals. It is based on the idea that truth is powerful and that non-violence is the most effective tool to fight injustice. Satyagraha is not merely a form of protest, but a way of life, emphasizing moral strength, patience, and the ultimate belief in the triumph of truth.
Gandhi's Views on Satyagraha:
Mahatma Gandhi believed that Satyagraha was not only a means to resist injustice but also a tool to bring about social and political change in a peaceful manner. He stressed that the practitioner of Satyagraha must be prepared to endure suffering and hardships without retaliation or violence. According to Gandhi, Satyagraha had the power to win over even the most oppressive authorities because it appealed to the moral conscience of the oppressor. Gandhi emphasized the importance of self-discipline, truthfulness, and fearlessness in practicing Satyagraha. He believed that the ultimate goal of Satyagraha was to transform both the individual and society towards a better, more just world.