Mahaveer Sanglikar
Mahatma Gandhi, the revered leader of India’s independence movement, was deeply influenced by Jain philosophy. This piece explores Gandhi’s strong connection to Jainism.
Gujarat’s Rich Jain Heritage
Born in Gujarat, a state on India’s west coast with a rich Jain heritage, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi grew up surrounded by Jain teachings. Gujarat boasts a long history of Jainism, with figures like Aritthanemi, the 22nd Tirthankara of Jainism, who propagated the faith in the region around the 10th century BCE. Aritthanemi, also known as Neminath and a cousin of Bhagwan Krishna.
Throughout history, Gujarat has been home to influential Jain rulers such as Kumarpal, who provided significant support to Jainism. The region also gave rise to renowned Jain ascetics like Acharya Hemachandra, Acharya Sheel Gun Soori, Shrimad Raj Chandra, Kanaji Swami, and many others.
Gujarat and its people have long been shaped by the teachings of Jainism, a tradition that also deeply impacted Mahatma Gandhi. His upbringing in Gujarat, his mother Putalibai’s adherence to Jainism, and his relationship with the renowned Jain philosopher Shrimad Rajchandra all played significant roles in shaping Gandhi’s worldview.
Community Influence
Born into the Modh Vanik community, a merchant group in Gujarat with strong Jain influences, Gandhi was surrounded by Jain principles from an early age. This community, historically rooted in Jainism, has produced notable figures like the esteemed Jain ascetic Acharya Hemachandra. While many Modh Vaniks have transitioned to Vaishnavism over time, Jainism held sway over a considerable portion of the community until relatively recently.
The influence of Gandhi’s mother, Putalibai, is evident in his writings and biographies. Despite being born into a Vaishnavite family in Porbandar on October 2, 1869, Gandhi was profoundly influenced by Jainism through his mother’s devotion.
Putalibai’s spiritual guide, Becharji Swami, a Jain monk, played a pivotal role in Gandhi’s early spiritual development. When Gandhi expressed his intention to pursue legal studies in England at the age of 18, Becharji Swami suggested that he take certain vows. Consequently, Gandhi committed to abstaining from meat, alcohol, and contact with women, reflecting his growing adherence to Jain principles.
Influence of Shrimad Rajchandra
Renowned Jain philosopher Shrimad Rajchandra shared a close bond with Gandhi, serving as one of his most trusted confidants. Possessing profound insights into Jain philosophy, Rajchandra’s wisdom greatly impacted Gandhi’s spiritual journey.
Gandhi quotes in his autobiography, “I have tried to meet the heads of various faiths, and I must say that no one else has ever made in me the impression that Rajchandra Ji did. In my moments of spiritual crisis, therefore he was my refuge”
During Gandhi’s time in South Africa, he sought guidance from Rajchandra by sending a detailed questionnaire comprising 27 thought-provoking inquiries. Rajchandra promptly responded, shedding light on profound truths and guiding Gandhi on his path of introspection and self-discovery.
Here are glimpses of some of the questions Gandhi posed to Rajchandra:
- What constitutes the essence of the Soul? Does it engage in actions? Are previous actions a hindrance to its advancement?
- Who or what is God? Is God the architect of the Universe?
- What does the concept of Moksha entail?
- Can all religious beliefs be traced back to the Vedas?
- Is there any spiritual benefit gained through the sacrifice of animals?
- What are your thoughts on Christianity?
- Is it possible for individuals to recall their past lives or envision future ones?
- What is the ultimate fate of our world?
- Will humanity’s morality improve over time?
- Is there a scenario where the world faces complete destruction?
- When faced with a snake bite, should one permit oneself to be bitten or opt to kill the snake as the only means of self-preservation?
In his autobiography, Gandhi openly acknowledges the profound influence that Shrimad Rajchandra had on his thinking, placing him at the forefront of the three individuals who shaped his worldview. Alongside Rajchandra, Gandhi credits Ruskin and Tolstoy as significant influences on his thoughts and beliefs.
Overall Influence of Jainism on Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi embraced the core principles of Jainism, taking on its five vows for laypeople with an elevated commitment. These vows encompassed Non-Violence, Truthfulness, Non-stealing, Non-Possession, and Celibacy.
Yet, delving deeper, Gandhi exhibited a profound Jain ethos through his remarkable courage. Notably, his actions during various movements reveal a resolute fearlessness, devoid of any hint of cowardice. Throughout his life, Gandhi exemplified bravery without reliance on weaponry.
Gandhi was deeply influenced by Jainism, particularly in aspects of simplicity and attire. He embraced wearing only essential clothing, crafted solely from cotton, and predominantly donned white garments, echoing the austere lifestyle of Jain ascetics.
While Jain monks typically eschew vehicles and traverse barefoot, Gandhi, though occasionally using vehicles, became renowned for his extensive marches undertaken solely on foot. These marches unmistakably mirrored the practices of Jain monks, underscoring Gandhi’s adherence to Jain principles.
Hence, it’s evident that Gandhi’s life and practices were profoundly shaped by Jainism, embodying its ethos in both attire and conduct.
Gandhi’s impact on Jainism was profound as he rendered its principles practical and applicable to everyday life. He extended these principles to a broad audience, pioneering their integration into social and political movements on a significant scale. Essentially, Gandhi emerged as the trailblazer in applying Jain ideals to mobilize and uplift the masses.
Gandhi’s Quotes on Jainism
“No religion of the world has explained the principle of non-violence so deeply and systematically, with its applicability in life as in Jainism…….Bhagwan Mahaveer is sure to be respected as the greatest authority on non-violence”
“I say with conviction that the doctrine for which the name of Lord Mahavir is glorified nowadays is the doctrine of Ahimsa. If anyone has practiced to the fullest extent and has propagated most the doctrine of Ahimsa, it was Lord Mahavira”
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