Question

Define Satyagraha. How is it different from Passive Resistance?

Answer 1

Hint: Satyagraha is exclusive of any use of force at all and was political in nature. Passive resistance was seen as a meek form of protest. This philosophy is cardinal to the Mahatma’s teachings and has also inspired international leaders like Martin Luther King Jr.

Complete answer: -According to Gandhi, Satyagraha was peaceful, non-violent and continued to be so especially when confronted with evil. Some methods include boycotts, non-compliance of laws and demonstrations.
-He coined the term from his mobilization during his stay in South Africa.
-Gandhi described his concept to have three principles: the cardinal truth, the refusal to hurt another, willingness to sacrifice yourself for a greater cause. This was called ‘Satya’ ahimsa and Tapasya’ in Hindi.
-What separates Satyagraha from Passive resistance is the fact that the latter is not exclusive of physical might for achieving your purpose.
-Gandhi regarded Satyagraha as more dynamic than mere passive resistance as it also thought about constructive mass action. Passive resistance, however, is a widely accepted way of putting pressure on the majority for having a more considerate take on minority politics, often described as a tactic to achieve your goal through personal suffering.

Note: The etymology of Satyagraha tells us that it is composed of two words; Satya, meaning truth and Agraha, meaning to hold steadfast. Both of these words are Sanskrit.
The Bengali philosopher, Aurobindo Ghosh is known for establishing the doctrine of passive resistance in India through a series of writings.