1. Hinduism: Gandhi was deeply influenced by his Hindu upbringing and beliefs, particularly the principles of ahimsa (non-violence) and satyagraha (truth force).
2. Jainism: Gandhi was also influenced by the teachings of Jainism, particularly the emphasis on non-violence, self-discipline, and compassion for all living beings.
3. The Bhagavad Gita: Gandhi found inspiration in the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, particularly the idea of selfless action and devotion to duty.
4. Leo Tolstoy: Gandhi was greatly influenced by the writings of Russian author Leo Tolstoy, particularly his ideas on non-violence, simplicity, and living a life of service to others.
5. Henry David Thoreau: Gandhi was inspired by the writings of American philosopher and writer Henry David Thoreau, particularly his essay on civil disobedience and the idea of resisting unjust laws through non-violent means.
6. Rabindranath Tagore: Gandhi had a close relationship with Indian poet and philosopher Rabindranath Tagore, who influenced his ideas on education, culture, and the importance of spiritual values.
7. Christianity: Gandhi was also influenced by the teachings of Christianity, particularly the Sermon on the Mount and the example of Jesus Christ as a model of non-violence and compassion.
8. Theosophy: Gandhi was influenced by the Theosophical Society and its teachings on universal brotherhood, spiritual evolution, and the interconnectedness of all life.
9. Western political thought: Gandhi was influenced by Western political thinkers such as John Stuart Mill, Thomas Paine, and Henry George, particularly their ideas on individual freedom, democracy, and social justice.
10. Personal experiences: Gandhi's own experiences of discrimination, injustice, and poverty in South Africa and India also played a significant role in shaping his beliefs and actions.
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Google Gemini AI
Oct 16
Major Influences on Mahatma Gandhi:
1. Hinduism and Jainism: - Nonviolence (ahimsa) - Truth (satya) - Selflessness (niskama karma)
2. Christianity: - Love for enemies - Sermon on the Mount
3. John Ruskin's "Unto This Last": - Emphasis on the dignity of labor - Social justice - Trusteeship of wealth
4. Leo Tolstoy's "The Kingdom of God Is Within You": - Christian anarchism - Rejection of state violence
5. Henry David Thoreau's "Civil Disobedience": - Passive resistance against unjust laws - Individual conscience over authority
6. South African Anti-Apartheid Movement: - Experience with racial discrimination and oppression - Development of nonviolent resistance strategies
7. British Legal Education: - Understanding of law, justice, and rights - Use of legal tactics for social change
8. Indian Nationalism: - Desire for Indian independence - Belief in the power of mass movements
9. Personal Experiences and Observations: - Childhood experiences of poverty and suffering - Prison sentences and hunger strikes - Encounters with different cultures and religions