To what extent does this quotation reflect Gandhi's contribution to the development and expression of Hinduism?
The idea that social duty and obligation are more important than personal desires is strongly upheld through Gandhi's contribution to the development and expression of Hinduism. This can be seen through his principle of Satygraha, which essentially encourages one to not strive for a single, selfish goal but to actively fight injustice and to act ethically at all times. It is thought that through following the Satygraha one would be able to reach their highest dharma. Three of the main ideas (or Yamas) within this philosophy are the teachings of Ahimsa, Asprushyatanivaran and Aswda. Through these ethical disciplines Gandhi assisted in the progression of the modern development and expression of Hinduism.
The practice of Ahimsa is one that Gandhi was most well-known for and is essentially the living by the concept of "non-violence"1. This means that instead of fighting violence with violence, Gandhi argued that exploitation could be overcome by returning love for hatred and respect for contempt, in a determined refusal to give in to injustice2. In explaining his theory Gandhi stated "I object to violence because when it appears to do good, the good is only temporary; the evil it does is permanent"3. He put his theory into action throughout various campaigns in his fight of social injustice such as the Salt March campaign. Another one of which being the Quit India movement which became the most violent movements in the struggle of India's freedom. The protest resulted in mass arrests and violence on an unprecedented scale4. However Gandhi wanted his disciples to follow the principles of Ahimsa and therefore the violence received was not reciprocated and resulted in the only non-violent liberation of a country. This practice often involved a