Religion Of Mahatma Gandhi
By J. K. Mehta
Summary
Mahatma Gandhi's religious beliefs were shaped by a blend of Hindu, Jain, and Christian influences, though he rejected orthodox Hinduism. Born to Vaishnava parents, he embraced rigorous vegetarianism and a love for abstract truth early in life. Studying the Bhagavad Gita in London, he initially grappled with Christianity under Christian missionaries but ultimately rejected it due to its silence on vegetarianism and animal welfare. His correspondence with Tolstoy and exposure to Jain teachings, particularly from Rajchandra, profoundly influenced his ethical framework, aligning with Jainism’s emphasis on non-violence (ahimsa) and asceticism. Gandhi identified as a Sanatani Hindu but rejected caste hierarchies and untouchability. He critiqued Hinduism’s social evils and interpreted religious texts like the Bhagavad Gita through a lens of non-violence, diverging from orthodox interpretations. His practices, such as Brahmacharya (chastity) and daily prayers at his ashram, blended Jain and Hindu elements, emphasizing peace and inclusivity. While he acknowledged theism, his religion centered on truth and non-violence, transcending sectarian boundaries. Scholars note his alignment with Jain principles, though he maintained a syncretic approach, prioritizing ethical living over doctrinal adherence.
Conclusion
Gandhi's religious journey reveals a unique synthesis of ethical rigor and inclusive spirituality, shaped by his rejection of orthodoxy and embrace of universal truths. His engagement with diverse traditions—from Jainism's non-theistic ethics to Tolstoyan Christianity and the Bhagavad Gita's philosophical depth—culminated in a belief system prioritizing truth, nonviolence, and vegetarianism over dogma. By critiquing Hinduism's social evils and reinterpreting scriptures through a lens of social justice, he challenged religious conservatism while retaining spiritual roots. His "Sanatani Hinduism" rejected caste hierarchies and untouchability, reflecting a radical reimagining of tradition aligned with his vision of moral and political liberation. This blend of critique and synthesis underscores Gandhi's enduring legacy: a religion of the heart, rooted in action and compassion, which transcended institutional boundaries to inspire global movements for truth and equity.