The Story of My Experiments with Truth · Chapter
Two Passions explained
Gandhi describes two deep-seated passions: his loyalty to the British Constitution and his aptitude for nursing.
What happens
Gandhi describes two deep-seated passions: his loyalty to the British Constitution and his aptitude for nursing. He recounts seeking guidance from Justice Ranade, Justice Tyabji, and Sir Pherozeshah Mehta to organize public meetings on South African issues. He also shares his experience nursing his brother-in-law during his final illness, which deepened his commitment to selfless service.
Themes in this chapter
Truth and Self-Experimentation
Gandhi's loyalty to the British Constitution is rooted in his love of truth; he cannot simulate loyalty and examines his own motives.
Nonviolence and Satyagraha
Gandhi's growing commitment to ahimsa leads him to reject the violent language in the National Anthem.
Service and Community Leadership
Gandhi's passion for nursing, whether for friends or strangers, exemplifies selfless service rendered with joy.
Characters to notice
- Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi
Reflects on his loyalty to the British Constitution and his passion for nursing, and seeks advice from prominent leaders in Bombay.
- Sir Pherozeshah Mehta
Gandhi meets him for guidance; he is described as the 'Lion of Bombay' and agrees to help by calling a public meeting.
- Mr. D. E. Wacha
Present during Gandhi's meeting with Sir Pherozeshah Mehta; described as a great statistician and Sir Pherozeshah's right-hand man.
- Mahadeo Govind Ranade
Gandhi meets Justice Ranade, who advises him to consult Sir Pherozeshah Mehta.
- Dr. Booth
Gandhi shares his concerns about the National Anthem's violent lines; Dr. Booth agrees and composes a new anthem.
Key passages
“Hardly ever have I known anybody to cherish such loyalty as I did to the British Constitution. I can see now that my love of truth was at the root of this loyalty.”
Gandhi's devotion to the British system was exceptional, and he later realized it stemmed from his commitment to truth.
Gandhi reflects on the foundation of his loyalty.
“Such service can have no meaning unless one takes pleasure in it. When it is done for show or for fear of public opinion, it stunts the man and crushes his spirit.”
Service must be performed joyfully; if done for appearance or out of fear, it harms both the server and the served.
Gandhi emphasizes the importance of genuine joy in service.