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Philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi
85
As a matter of fact, evil in itself is unproductive. It is selfdestructive. It exists and flourishes through the implication of good that is inherent in it. Science teaches us that a lever cannot move a body unless it has got a resting point outside the body against which it is applied. Similarly, in order to overcome evil, one must stand wholly outside it. Thus, in his view, the purity of means is essential for minimizing evil. But he is conscious of the fact that what is good under certain circumstances can become an evil or a sin under a different condition. He is always aware of the place of evil in the scheme of progress. He points out: "Evolution is always experimental, and all progress is gained through mistakes and their rectification. Besides, the principles of karma and rebirth suggest that through a gradual process man will be able to minimize evil."34
These two doctrines of the Law of Karma and Rebirth are not mere unproved dogmas. These are the laws of life deduced by the Indian seers from spiritual insight and verified experience. These are the laws of governing human growth and moral continuity. Accordingly, our actions leave Samskaras. These are dynamic and casual factors and determine our future not only in this life but also in subsequent lives. According to this law, our future will grow out of the present just as the present is the outcome of our past. However, the doctrine of karma is the only rational explanation of human inequality, at least if we admit a purposive reality behind the universe.
Conclusion
Thus we see that Gandhi has a firm belief in rebirth and karma. This law explains the births and formation of bodies metaphysically. It is considered as the moral maxim 'as you sow, so you reap'. For him man's sufferings are due to his own wrong actions done in the past and that the right and wrong deeds performed in this life will bear fruits in future. And this enables man to make himself free and liberated.
1. Young India, 11-10-28.
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