# Brahmacharya—I explained — The Story of My Experiments with Truth

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

## What happens

Gandhi reflects on his evolving understanding of brahmacharya (celibacy) and the importance of vows. He traces his journey from a monogamous ideal to a serious consideration of a vow of celibacy, influenced by Raychandbhai's teachings and his own experiences during the Zulu 'Rebellion.' He discusses the struggle with lust, the failure of initial efforts, and the realization that a vow is necessary for true freedom and public service.

## Themes in this chapter

### Self-Discipline and Simplicity

Gandhi's struggle for self-control and the decision to take a vow of brahmacharya exemplify his commitment to self-discipline and a life of simplicity.

### Truth and Self-Experimentation

Gandhi's introspective analysis of his own desires and failures, and his experimentation with self-control, reflect his pursuit of truth.

### Family and Personal Relationships

Gandhi's relationship with his wife Kasturbai and his discussions with Raychandbhai highlight the personal dimensions of his spiritual and ethical journey.

## Character check-ins

### Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi

The narrator and central figure, grappling with the decision to take a vow of brahmacharya.

### Raychandbhai

Influential poet and thinker who challenged Gandhi's views on conjugal love, prompting deeper reflection on devotion and self-control.

### Kasturbai Gandhi

Gandhi's wife, who is described as never being the temptress, and whose relationship with Gandhi is central to his struggle with brahmacharya.

### Mr. Hills

Advocate of internal self-control over external contraceptive methods, whose views had a lasting effect on Gandhi.

### Dr. Allinson

Mentioned in connection with birth control propaganda that had a temporary effect on Gandhi.

## Key lines

> I realized that a vow, far from closing the door to real freedom, opened it.

Gandhi came to understand that taking a vow does not restrict freedom but actually enhances it.

_This reflects Gandhi's evolving philosophy on the liberating power of vows._

> I vow to flee from the serpent which I know will bite me, I do not simply make an effort to flee from him.

Gandhi uses the metaphor of a serpent to argue that a definitive vow is necessary to avoid certain harm, rather than relying on mere effort.

_This illustrates his conviction that clear, decisive action is superior to hesitant effort._

> The devotion of a servant was, I felt, a thousand times more praiseworthy than that of a wife to her husband.

Gandhi, influenced by Raychandbhai, began to value selfless service over natural conjugal devotion.

_This marks a shift in Gandhi's thinking about relationships and duty._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-vii-brahmacharya-i
- 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