Skip to content

Application Quote by Mahatma Gandhi

“Hinduism is a living organism liable to growth and decay subject to the laws of Nature. One and indivisible at the root, it has grown into a vast tree with innumerable branches. The changes in the season affect it. It has its autumn and its summer, its winter and its spring. It is, and is not…” quote by Mahatma Gandhi
Download Open image
“Hinduism is a living organism liable to growth and decay subject to the laws of Nature. One and indivisible at the root, it has grown into a vast tree with innumerable branches. The changes in the season affect it. It has its autumn and its summer, its winter and its spring. It is, and is not, based on scriptures. It does not derive its authority from one book. Non violence has found the highest expression and application in Hinduism.”

Mahatma Gandhi

About This Quote

Source Speech: Reflections on Hinduism, Mahatma Gandhi, 1930s

Hinduism evolves like a living organism, growing and changing with nature, not bound to a single scripture; its core principle of non‑violence is its highest expression.

In simple terms: Hinduism changes with nature, not tied to one book; non‑violence is central.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the fluid, ethical core of traditions.

Themes

spirituality religion change ethics non‑violence

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

philosophical religious

When to use this quote

  • personal spiritual practice
  • interfaith dialogue
  • social activism
  • educational curricula

Key Concepts

organic growth seasonal metaphor scriptural independence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does flexibility affect religious identity?
  • In what ways can non‑violence be applied today?
A Different Perspective

Complex traditions may still rely on texts for guidance.

2.4 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Mahatma Gandhi

Explore all 3,284 Mahatma Gandhi quotes

More Application quotes

Browse all 918 Application quotes