Introduction
Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy revolved around the concept of truth, which he considered the most fundamental principle in life. He famously said, “Truth is God.” However, Gandhi made an important distinction between ‘Absolute Truth’ and ‘Relative Truth’. This distinction is essential to understand his moral, spiritual, and political beliefs. In this post, we will explore how Gandhi defined both forms of truth and how this distinction shaped his life and actions.
What is ‘Absolute Truth’ According to Gandhi?
Absolute Truth, also known as Satya, is eternal, unchanging, and universal. Gandhi believed that Absolute Truth is beyond human perception. It is the ultimate reality — the force or presence that governs the universe. He equated Absolute Truth with God. For Gandhi, God is not a person or a being but the highest form of truth.
He wrote, “There are innumerable definitions of God, because His manifestations are innumerable. They overwhelm me with wonder and awe and for a moment stun me. But I worship God as Truth only.”
Because Absolute Truth is so vast and deep, no one can claim to fully understand or possess it. Human beings can only try to reach it through honest effort, humility, and love.
What is ‘Relative Truth’?
Relative Truth is the limited and partial understanding of truth that human beings possess. It varies from person to person, depending on their background, culture, education, and experiences. Gandhi accepted that our perceptions are always imperfect and that what appears true to one person may not seem so to another.
This awareness made Gandhi extremely tolerant. He believed that we must respect other people’s truths and never impose our beliefs on them. This belief formed the basis of his non-violent philosophy — instead of fighting over who is right, we must engage in dialogue and understand each other’s perspectives.
The Relationship Between Absolute and Relative Truth
For Gandhi, the journey of life is a continuous attempt to move from Relative Truth towards Absolute Truth. This journey requires constant self-examination, honesty, and humility. One must admit when they are wrong and be open to learning.
Gandhi wrote, “What may appear as truth to one person will often appear as untruth to another person. But that need not worry the seeker. Where there is honest effort, it will be realized that what appeared to be different truths are like the countless and apparently different leaves of the same tree.”
In other words, even if people seem to follow different paths, they may all be heading toward the same Absolute Truth.
Truth in Practice: Application in Gandhi’s Life
Gandhi’s concept of truth was not just philosophical—it was practical. In every action, whether in politics, social reform, or personal life, he asked himself whether it was truthful. He often admitted his mistakes publicly and changed his actions based on new understanding. This commitment to truth gave him great moral strength.
For example, during his campaigns, if he realized that the methods were not aligned with truth or non-violence, he would call off the movement—even if it was gaining momentum. He did this during the Chauri Chaura incident in 1922 when a violent mob killed policemen. Gandhi suspended the Non-Cooperation Movement because he believed violence was a betrayal of truth.
Implications of Gandhi’s Distinction
The distinction between Absolute and Relative Truth had several important implications:
- Promoted Tolerance: Since no one has the full truth, everyone must be tolerant of others’ views.
- Encouraged Humility: Gandhi constantly reminded people that their understanding is limited.
- Guided Ethics: Truth was not just about facts but also about moral correctness.
- Enabled Non-violence: Disagreements must be resolved through love, not force.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Gandhi’s distinction between Absolute and Relative Truth reflects both his deep spirituality and his practical wisdom. While Absolute Truth is the ultimate goal, Relative Truth is the reality we live in. Gandhi taught that by living honestly, humbly, and non-violently, we can move closer to that ultimate truth. His approach remains deeply relevant today in a world full of conflict, disagreement, and division.