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Those who discovered for us the Law of Love were greater scientists than any of our modern scientists.

Mohandas K. Gandhi

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The Law of Love

Topic: Love, Compassion, & Kindness

Those who discovered for us the Law of Love were greater scientists than any of our modern scientists. Only our explorations have not gone far enough, and so it is not possible for everyone to see all of its workings… Whether mankind will consciously follow the Law of Love, I do not know. But that need not perturb us. The Law will work, just as the law of Gravitation will work.

Mohandas K. Gandhi

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, known universally as Mahatma Gandhi, was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, a small town on the western coast of India. He hailed from a Hindu merchant caste family and his father served as the chief minister of Porbandar state. Gandhi's youth was shaped by deeply spiritual influences that stemmed from his mother's devout Jainism, which instilled in him beliefs in non-violence, fasting, meditation, and vegetarianism. As a young man, Gandhi travelled to London to study law, an experience that further broadened his perspective and exposed him to Western ideas of justice and equity.

Returning to India after completing his studies, Gandhi found himself dissatisfied with the legal profession and soon moved to South Africa to work on a legal case. It was in South Africa, faced with rampant racial discrimination, that Gandhi began to refine the philosophy of non-violent resistance, or Satyagraha, a principle deeply rooted in his religious beliefs. For nearly 21 years, Gandhi strove for the civil rights of Indians in South Africa, successfully employing methods of civil disobedience and passive resistance.

In 1915, Gandhi returned to India, bringing with him his deeply entrenched ideas of Satyagraha. He assumed leadership of the Indian National Congress and led nationwide campaigns for easing poverty, expanding women's rights, ending untouchability, and achieving Swaraj, or self-rule. His role in the Indian independence movement was monumental, with his leadership and doctrines of non-violent resistance culminating in India's independence from British rule in 1947. However, his life was tragically cut short when he was assassinated on January 30, 1948. His legacy, nonetheless, continues to inspire peace movements globally, securing his place as one of the most significant figures of the 20th century.

(1869-1948) Hinduism

Gandhi, Mahatma. "Non-Violence in Peace and War." Navajivan Publishing House, 1942.

Mohandas K. Gandhi


Theme: Love

About This Mohandas K. Gandhi Quotation [Commentary]

Mohandas K. Gandhi’s statement, “Those who discovered for us the Law of Love were greater scientists than any of our modern scientists,” elevates the understanding of love and nonviolence to the level of scientific discovery. Gandhi believed that the principles of love and nonviolence were as universal and powerful as the laws of physics. By comparing these moral laws to scientific laws, Gandhi highlights the idea that love and nonviolence have the potential to transform society significantly. This comparison suggests that the exploration and application of love require a systematic and dedicated approach, similar to scientific inquiry.

The context passage further explains Gandhi’s vision, suggesting that humanity’s exploration of the Law of Love is still in its early stages. Gandhi implies that just as scientific laws operate regardless of human belief, the Law of Love will function regardless of whether humanity consciously adheres to it. This reflects Gandhi’s faith in the intrinsic power of love and nonviolence to work independently of human acknowledgment. His reference to the law of gravitation reinforces the idea that certain truths and forces are constant, existing regardless of our awareness or acceptance.

In the context of love, Gandhi’s quote emphasizes that true understanding and practice of love can lead to significant change. Gandhi’s view that those who understand and apply the Law of Love are greater than traditional scientists suggests that individuals who embody and practice these principles possess unique wisdom and capability to enact positive change. This highlights the importance of love as a guiding force, aligning with Gandhi’s lifelong commitment to nonviolence and social justice. By recognizing love as a powerful and transformative force, Gandhi’s message encourages deeper exploration and dedication to its principles.

Mohandas K. Gandhi, The Law of Love [Commentary]

Mohandas K. Gandhi often spoke about the “Law of Love” as a fundamental principle governing human interactions and society. In his view, this law was as immutable and powerful as the physical laws that govern the natural world. Here’s an explanation based on Gandhi’s words and teachings:

  1. Universality and Unchanging Nature: Gandhi believed that the Law of Love, like the law of gravitation, is a universal truth that operates regardless of human awareness or acceptance. He asserted, “The law of love will work, just as the law of gravitation will work,” suggesting that love has an inherent power that influences human behavior and relationships, whether or not we consciously recognize it.
  2. Power of Nonviolence: For Gandhi, the Law of Love was synonymous with the principle of nonviolence (ahimsa). He stated, “Nonviolence is the greatest force at the disposal of mankind. It is mightier than the mightiest weapon of destruction devised by the ingenuity of man.” This highlights his belief that love, expressed through nonviolent action, is the most powerful force for social change and personal transformation.
  3. Moral Imperative: Gandhi saw the Law of Love as a moral imperative, guiding individuals to act with compassion, empathy, and selflessness. He explained, “Where there is love, there is life,” emphasizing that love is essential for the flourishing of individuals and communities. According to Gandhi, adhering to this law means striving to love and serve others, fostering harmony and understanding.
  4. Scientific Approach to Love: Gandhi’s comparison of the discoverers of the Law of Love to scientists suggests that he viewed the application of love as a systematic and deliberate process. He admired those who practiced and taught love and nonviolence with the same rigor and dedication as scientists exploring the natural world, believing that their contributions had the potential for profound societal impact.

In summary, Gandhi’s Law of Love is a principle that emphasizes the power of love and nonviolence as universal, transformative forces. It calls for a moral commitment to compassion and service, and it recognizes the systematic and deliberate practice of love as essential for creating a just and harmonious society.