Mahatma Gandhi, the iconic leader of India’s independence movement, left behind a legacy of profound wisdom and courage. In this blog, we’ll explore some most inspiring quotes about bravery and being brave by Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi’s words have the power to motivate and encourage us to find our inner strength, face challenges, and stand up for what we believe in. Join us as we delve into the world of Gandhi’s wisdom and discover what it truly means to be brave.
Mahatma Gandhi Brave or Bravery Quotes
1. “Bravery is not man’s monopoly.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi’s quote emphasizes that courage is not exclusive to any particular gender. It rejects the notion that only men possess bravery, highlighting that women are equally capable of acts of courage and fortitude. This quote underscores the importance of gender equality and challenges traditional stereotypes about courage.
2. “Bravery is not a quality of the body; it is of the soul.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi suggests that true bravery isn’t determined by physical strength or appearance. Instead, it resides within one’s character and moral values. Bravery, in his view, is a reflection of the strength of one’s spirit, inner convictions, and willingness to do what is right, even in the face of adversity.
3. “Nonviolence is the summit of bravery.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi’s belief in nonviolence as the pinnacle of bravery reflects his commitment to peaceful resistance. He asserts that it takes great courage to confront injustice without resorting to violence. This quote encourages individuals to seek peaceful means of conflict resolution, emphasizing the moral and ethical strength required to practice nonviolence.
4. “Bravery on the battlefield is impossible for us. Bravery of the soul still remains open to us.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi, known for his advocacy of nonviolence, distinguishes between physical bravery on the battlefield and the moral bravery of the soul. He suggests that while engaging in violent warfare is not an option, individuals can still demonstrate courage by standing up for their principles, beliefs, and values in nonviolent ways.
5. “I see neither bravery nor sacrifice in destroying life or property for offense or defense.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi condemns violence as a means of offense or defense. He argues that causing harm to others or damaging property does not demonstrate bravery or sacrifice. Instead, he advocates for peaceful and constructive approaches to resolving conflicts and achieving justice.
6. “Mere brave speech without action is letting off useless steam.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi emphasizes the importance of translating words into actions. Merely speaking bravely or passionately without taking tangible steps towards change is futile. True bravery, in his view, involves actively working towards positive change and standing up for one’s convictions through meaningful actions.
7. “True Purusha, true bravery, consists of driving out the brute in us.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi’s quote delves into inner transformation. He suggests that true bravery involves overcoming one’s inner flaws and base instincts, such as aggression or cruelty. To him, real courage is displayed when one conquers their own negative traits and strives for moral and spiritual growth.
8. “Unexampled bravery, born of nonviolence, coupled with strict honesty shown by a fair number of Muslims, was sure to infect the whole of India.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi acknowledges the profound impact of nonviolent bravery and honesty on society. He believed that individuals who exemplify these qualities can inspire and influence others positively. This quote highlights Gandhi’s conviction that nonviolence and honesty can lead to positive social change.
9. “The art of dying bravely and with honor does not need any special training, save a living faith in God.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi emphasizes that facing death with courage and honor doesn’t require extensive preparation or training. Instead, he asserts that a deep and unwavering faith in a higher power can provide the strength and courage needed to confront mortality with dignity.
10. “For thousands to do to death a few hundreds are no bravery. It is worse than cowardice. It is unworthy of nationalism, of any religion.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi criticizes mass violence and the notion that harming many to subdue a few is an act of bravery. He condemns such actions as not only cowardly but also incompatible with the principles of nationalism and any religion that promotes peace and compassion.
11. “Active nonviolence of the brave puts to flight thieves, dacoits, murderers, and prepares an army of volunteers ready to sacrifice themselves in quelling riots, in extinguishing fires and feuds, and so on.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi underscores the effectiveness of active nonviolence practiced by courageous individuals. He argues that nonviolent action can deter criminal activity and prepare a community of volunteers willing to risk their lives to maintain peace and resolve conflicts, demonstrating the true strength of nonviolent bravery.
12. “Nonviolence is not a weapon of the weak. It is a weapon of the strongest and the bravest.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi challenges the misconception that nonviolence is a passive or feeble approach. Instead, he asserts that it requires immense strength and courage to choose nonviolence as a means of resistance. Nonviolence, in his view, is a powerful weapon wielded by those with the moral fortitude and bravery to stand up for their principles without resorting to violence.
13. “There can be no friendship between cowards, or cowards and brave men.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi’s quote emphasizes the difficulty of forming meaningful relationships between individuals of vastly differing character traits. He suggests that genuine friendships are built on common values, including bravery. Cowards and brave individuals are unlikely to connect deeply because their fundamental principles and approaches to life differ significantly.
14. “The man or the woman who can display this nonviolence of the brave can easily stand against an external invasion.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi argues that a person who possesses the courage to practice nonviolence can effectively defend their homeland against external threats. He believes that the moral strength and resilience inherent in nonviolent resistance can be a potent defense mechanism, even in the face of aggression from external forces.
15. “Those who are truthful, nonviolent, and brave do not cease to be so because of the stupidity of their leader.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi highlights the enduring qualities of truthfulness, nonviolence, and bravery. These virtues are not dependent on the intelligence or actions of a leader. Individuals who possess these traits remain committed to their values, regardless of the leadership they are under, demonstrating unwavering integrity and courage.
16. “Ahimsa is an attribute of the brave. Cowardice and ahimsa don’t go together with any more than water and fire.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi asserts that nonviolence (ahimsa) is a characteristic of the brave. He draws a sharp contrast between cowardice and nonviolence, suggesting that they are incompatible. Just as water and fire cannot coexist, cowardice and the practice of nonviolence are fundamentally at odds.
17. “Ahimsa is the highest ideal. It is meant for the brave, never for the cowardly.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi emphasizes that nonviolence (ahimsa) is the loftiest moral principle. He believes it is a path for the brave, as it requires tremendous courage to resist violence and conflict through peaceful means. Cowardice, in contrast, cannot align with the commitment to nonviolence.
18. “The history of the world is full of instances of men who rose to leadership by sheer force of self-confidence, bravery, and tenacity.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi acknowledges the historical examples of leaders who achieved prominence through their unwavering self-confidence, courage, and determination. He suggests that these qualities are often instrumental in propelling individuals into positions of leadership and influence.
19. “A straight fight in an equal battle takes some bravery, but braver is he who, knowing that he would have to sacrifice ninety-five as against five of the enemy, faces death.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi lauds the bravery of those who willingly face overwhelming odds and certain sacrifice for a just cause. He believes that true courage is demonstrated when one stands up for their principles even when outnumbered or facing great personal risk, emphasizing the moral strength of such individuals.
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