Question

With reference to Gandhiji, discuss his views on the following issue:

Truth and non-violence.

Answer 1

1. Satyagraha is a combination of two Sanskrit words-Satya (truth) and agraha (eagerness). Satyagraha is based on the twin principles of truth and non-violence.
2. A satyagrahi was one who firmly believed in truth and non­violence and who would resist evil at all costs. A satyagrahi was peaceful, fearless, and strong.
3. He/She would hate evil but not the ‘evildoer’. In the fight for justice and truth, the satyagrahi would willingly accept suffering and be ready to make sacrifices.
4. The suffering and patience of the satyagrahi were expected to bring about a change of heart in the enemy. The idea behind satyagraha was not to destroy the enemy but the transform and enlighten him. 
5. Gandhiji insisted on non-violent methods of struggle. He believed that non-violence was the weapon of the strong and could be effectively used to resist armed attacks by the enemy. A satyagrahi was expected to follow peaceful methods even under extreme provocation.