Definition

1. Noun:
   • A form of nonviolent resistance: "satyagraha" refers specifically to the philosophy and practice of nonviolent resistance or civil disobedience, particularly as developed and employed by Mahatma Gandhi in India.
   • A force born of truth and love: The term is derived from Sanskrit, combining "satya" (truth) and "agraha" (insistence, holding firmly). It signifies a relentless pursuit of truth and justice through nonviolent means.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • Gandhi's satyagraha campaigns were instrumental in India's struggle for independence.
  • The principles of satyagraha emphasize truth, nonviolence, and self-suffering.

Advanced Usage

• "to practice satyagraha": to engage in nonviolent resistance.
  • The activists were trained to practice satyagraha against the unjust law.
• "the spirit of satyagraha": the underlying philosophy or ethos of nonviolent insistence on truth.
  • His leadership was guided by the spirit of satyagraha.

Variants and Related Words

• Satyagrahi (noun): A person who practices or is dedicated to satyagraha.
  • The satyagrahis remained peaceful despite police provocation.

Synonyms

• Nonviolent resistance: opposition to a government or authority without using violence.
• Civil disobedience: the refusal to comply with certain laws as a peaceful form of political protest.
• Passive resistance: noncooperation with authority, often without active aggression.

Related Phrases

• "Truth force": A direct translation and conceptual synonym for satyagraha, emphasizing its basis in truth.
  • He believed in the power of truth force to overcome oppression.

Related Idioms

• "To wield the weapon of satyagraha": To use nonviolent resistance as a strategic tool.
  • The community decided to wield the weapon of satyagraha against the corporate polluters.

Noun

1. the form of nonviolent resistance initiated in India by Mahatma Gandhi in order to oppose British rule and to hasten political reforms