Satyagraha

Definition

Satyagraha is a philosophy and practice of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience, which was developed by Mahatma Gandhi as a means to bring about social and political change. It emphasizes the power of truth and moral authority over violence, advocating for peaceful protest against injustice. This approach not only arose in response to colonial oppression but also inspired various reform movements within Hinduism during the 19th and 20th centuries, seeking to address social inequalities and promote moral values.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Satyagraha was first effectively used by Gandhi in South Africa during the struggle against racial discrimination in the early 20th century.
2. The term 'satyagraha' combines 'satya' (truth) and 'agraha' (firmness), representing a commitment to truth and moral principles in the face of oppression.
3. Gandhi's use of satyagraha during the Indian independence movement became a significant influence on civil rights movements around the world, including those led by figures like Martin Luther King Jr.
4. Satyagraha is rooted in the idea that individuals can resist injustice without resorting to violence, thus preserving their own moral integrity while fighting against oppression.
5. The practice of satyagraha has been linked to broader Hindu reform movements that sought to address issues such as caste discrimination and social inequality, emphasizing ethical living and societal change.

Review Questions

• How did satyagraha serve as a response to colonialism and influence the struggle for independence?
  • Satyagraha emerged as a direct response to colonial oppression, providing a nonviolent means for individuals to resist unjust laws and practices imposed by British rule. Gandhi believed that by adhering to principles of truth and nonviolence, Indian citizens could assert their rights while maintaining moral authority. This approach galvanized mass participation in the independence movement, enabling people from various backgrounds to unite against colonial powers without resorting to violence.
• Discuss how satyagraha was significant in shaping Hindu reform movements during the 19th and 20th centuries.
  • Satyagraha played a crucial role in shaping Hindu reform movements by promoting values such as truth, nonviolence, and moral integrity. Reformers like Gandhi linked these principles to broader social issues such as caste discrimination and women's rights, encouraging Hindus to challenge existing social norms peacefully. This approach not only inspired grassroots activism but also redefined the relationship between religion and politics within Hinduism, leading to a more inclusive vision of social justice.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of satyagraha on global movements for justice and equality.
  • The long-term impact of satyagraha extends far beyond India's struggle for independence, influencing numerous global movements for justice and equality. Leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. adopted Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolent resistance during the American Civil Rights Movement, demonstrating how satyagraha's core principles resonate across different contexts. This legacy continues today, as activists worldwide draw upon its teachings to advocate for social change while maintaining ethical standards in their fight against oppression.

Related terms

Ahimsa: The principle of nonviolence towards all living beings, which is central to both satyagraha and Hindu philosophy.

Civil Disobedience: The active refusal to obey certain laws or demands of a government, often used as a strategy in nonviolent resistance.

Swadeshi Movement: An economic strategy aimed at removing British colonial rule from India through the promotion of self-reliance and the boycott of British goods.