# Christian Contacts explained — The Story of My Experiments with Truth

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

## What happens

Gandhi describes his deepening interactions with Christian friends in South Africa, particularly Mr. Coates, who introduced him to various Christian texts and acquaintances. He recounts a debate with a Plymouth Brother about atonement and sin, which he rejects in favor of self-purification. Gandhi also reflects on his participation in prayer meetings and his refusal to break the Vaishnava necklace given by his mother, highlighting his commitment to his own religious traditions.

## Themes in this chapter

### Religion and Interfaith Dialogue

Gandhi engages in deep theological discussions with Christians, exploring their beliefs while maintaining his own Hindu identity.

### Self-Discipline and Simplicity

Gandhi rejects the idea of relying on Jesus for atonement, insisting instead on self-purification and personal responsibility for sin.

## Character check-ins

### Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi

Engages in religious discussions, attends prayer meetings, and defends his Vaishnava necklace.

### Mr. Coates

A Quaker friend who introduces Gandhi to Christian texts and friends, and tries to convert him.

### Mr. A. W. Baker

Hosts the prayer meeting that Gandhi attends.

## Key lines

> You cannot understand the beauty of our religion. From what you say it appears that you must be brooding over your transgressions every moment of your life, always mending them and atoning for them. How can this ceaseless cycle of action bring you redemption?

The Plymouth Brother argues that Gandhi's constant striving to atone for sins is futile and cannot bring peace.

_Gandhi recounts the Plymouth Brother's critique of his approach to sin and redemption._

> If this be the Christianity acknowledged by all Christians, I cannot accept it. I do not seek redemption from the consequences of my sin. I seek to be redeemed from sin itself, or rather from the very thought of sin.

Gandhi responds that he seeks freedom from the desire to sin, not just forgiveness for sins committed.

_Gandhi articulates his own spiritual goal of inner purity over external atonement._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xi-christian-contacts
- 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