The Story of My Experiments with Truth · Chapter
A Peep Into the Ashram explained
Gandhi describes the relocation of the Ashram from Kochrab to a new site near the Sabarmati Central Jail due to a plague outbreak, highlighting the challenges of living on waste land, the rule of non-killing of snakes, and the Ashram's focu
What happens
Gandhi describes the relocation of the Ashram from Kochrab to a new site near the Sabarmati Central Jail due to a plague outbreak, highlighting the challenges of living on waste land, the rule of non-killing of snakes, and the Ashram's focus on weaving.
Themes in this chapter
Self-Discipline and Simplicity
The Ashram's life under canvas, common kitchen, and rule of non-killing of snakes exemplify simplicity and self-discipline.
Nonviolence and Satyagraha
The practice of not killing venomous snakes and the association of the Ashram's location with jail-going for satyagrahis reflect nonviolent principles.
Characters to notice
- Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi
Describes the Ashram's relocation and his personal attraction to the site near the Sabarmati Central Jail.
- Maganlal Gandhi
Entrusted with the execution of the Ashram's removal and construction.
- Parsi Rustomji
Mentioned as Sjt. Punjabhai Hirachand, a merchant who helped procure land for the Ashram.
Key passages
“The rule of not killing venomous reptiles has been practised for the most part at Phoenix, Tolstoy Farm and Sabarmati.”
The practice of not killing poisonous snakes was followed at Phoenix, Tolstoy Farm, and Sabarmati.
Highlights the consistent application of nonviolence even towards dangerous animals.
“I see, with the eye of faith, in this circumstance the hand of the God of Mercy.”
I perceive divine mercy in the fact that no one died from snakebites despite the practice of non-killing.
Gandhi interprets the lack of snakebite fatalities as a sign of God's protection.