Introduction
Anekantavada is a Jain philosophical concept that means “the doctrine of many-sidedness.” It teaches that truth and reality are complex and cannot be fully known from a single perspective. Mahatma Gandhi, though not a Jain by religion, deeply admired this principle and incorporated it into his philosophy of truth, non-violence, and tolerance. In this post, we will explore how Gandhi understood and applied Anekantavada in his life and thought.
What is Anekantavada?
Anekantavada suggests that no single viewpoint can claim absolute truth. Different people may see the same reality differently based on their experience, culture, or belief system. The concept encourages:
- Openness to other viewpoints
- Humility in knowledge
- Respectful dialogue and discussion
It is closely related to the Jain practices of Syadvada (conditional statements) and Nayavada (perspectives-based analysis).
Gandhi’s Engagement with Anekantavada
Gandhi was deeply influenced by Jainism during his time in Gujarat and South Africa. He accepted Anekantavada as a way to understand the complexity of truth. This connected closely with his belief that:
- Truth is God, but no one has a monopoly on it.
- Different religions and ideologies may reflect parts of the same truth.
- Dialogue is more powerful than argument.
He said, “I do not want my house to be walled in on all sides and my windows to be stuffed. I want the cultures of all lands to be blown about my house as freely as possible.”
Anekantavada and Non-Violence
Gandhi linked Anekantavada with Ahimsa (non-violence). He believed that forcing one’s opinion on others is a form of intellectual violence. If we accept that others may hold a part of the truth, we become less aggressive and more understanding.
This approach was evident in:
- His respect for all religions
- His readiness to admit mistakes
- His commitment to peaceful dialogue with opponents
Applications in Gandhi’s Life
- Interfaith Harmony: Gandhi supported unity among Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and others by emphasizing shared values rather than differences.
- Satyagraha: His method of non-violent resistance was based on dialogue, understanding, and the idea that both sides can be partly right.
- Political Negotiations: Gandhi often engaged with the British and Indian leaders with openness and respect, even when he disagreed.
Modern Relevance
In today’s world, where there is growing polarization and intolerance, Gandhi’s use of Anekantavada teaches us to:
- Listen to others respectfully
- Accept differences without hatred
- Build unity in diversity
Conclusion
In conclusion, Gandhi’s acceptance of Anekantavada added depth and humility to his search for truth. It helped him build bridges between different communities, avoid dogmatism, and practice true non-violence. This principle remains a powerful guide for peaceful coexistence and respectful communication in our diverse world.