# Endnotes explained — The Story of My Experiments with Truth

> Chapter companion for The Story of My Experiments with Truth by Mahatma Gandhi.

## What happens

This chapter provides explanatory notes for terms and concepts referenced throughout the book, including definitions of spiritual, dietary, and cultural terms such as moksha, ahimsa, brahmacharya, and saptapadi, as well as clarifications on specific references.

## Themes in this chapter

### Nonviolence and Satyagraha

The note defines ahimsa as 'not-hurting, nonviolence,' a core principle of Gandhi's philosophy.

### Self-Discipline and Simplicity

The notes explain brahmacharya (self-restraint, mastery over sexual organ) and various fasting practices (chaturmas, ekadashi), reflecting themes of discipline.

### Religion and Interfaith Dialogue

The notes reference Hindu concepts (moksha, maya, varnashrama), the Bhagavad Gita, and the Koran prayer, indicating interfaith context.

## Key lines

> Ahimsa means literally not-hurting, nonviolence.

Ahimsa is the principle of nonviolence and not causing harm.

_Definition of a key Gandhian concept._

> Brahmacharya means literally conduct that leads one to God. Its technical meaning is self-restraint, particularly mastery over the sexual organ.

Brahmacharya is the practice of self-restraint, especially control over sexual desires, aimed at spiritual growth.

_Explanation of the term central to Gandhi's personal discipline._

> Saptapadi are seven steps a Hindu bride and bridegroom walk together, making at the same time promises of mutual fidelity and devotion, after which the marriage becomes irrevocable.

Saptapadi is the Hindu wedding ritual where the couple takes seven steps together, exchanging vows of loyalty and devotion, sealing the marriage.

_Clarification of a marriage ritual mentioned earlier._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/endnotes
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters