1. Hinduism and Indian Culture:
- Gandhi was deeply rooted in his Hindu faith and drew inspiration from ancient Indian religious texts such as the Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads, and Ramayana. These texts emphasized virtues like compassion, non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), and service to others.
2. Experience in South Africa:
- Gandhi's time in South Africa (1893-1914) exposed him to racial discrimination and injustice under the apartheid regime. Fighting for the rights of Indian immigrants, he honed his strategies of non-violent resistance (satyagraha) and civil disobedience.
3. Tolstoy's Influence:
- Gandhi found profound inspiration in the writings of Russian author Leo Tolstoy, particularly his book "The Kingdom of God is Within You," which reinforced Gandhi's belief in moral self-improvement and non-violence.
4. Concept of Swaraj (Self-Rule):
- Swaraj was a crucial principle for Gandhi. He believed in India's self-governance and freedom from British colonial rule. However, he emphasized that true freedom came from internal self-discipline and personal development, not just political independence.
5. The Power of Satyagraha:
- Satyagraha is a central concept in Gandhi's philosophy. It means "holding onto truth through firmness" and involves resisting oppression through non-violent means and civil disobedience. Gandhi demonstrated the power of satyagraha in various movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement.
6. Social Reform:
- Gandhi advocated for social reforms to address issues such as caste discrimination, poverty, and women's rights. He promoted equal rights for all and worked to uplift the marginalized and downtrodden in Indian society.
7. Influence of Jainism:
- Jainism, an ancient Indian religion that emphasizes non-violence (ahimsa), had a significant impact on Gandhi's beliefs. The principle of respecting all forms of life resonated with him and reinforced his commitment to non-violence.
Overall, Mahatma Gandhi's beliefs were shaped by his religious background, personal experiences, encounters with different cultures, his understanding of history, and his deep desire for justice, freedom, and social progress in India.