What are the major arguments of Leo Tolstoy in ‘The Kingdom of God is within you’? Did it shape the thinking of Gandhi, explain.

Leo Tolstoy's "The Kingdom of God is Within You," published in 1894, is a significant philosophical work that explores Tolstoy's interpretation of Christianity and his rejection of institutionalized religion, government, and violence. The book had a profound impact on various thinkers of the time, including Mahatma Gandhi, who found inspiration in Tolstoy's ideas on nonviolence and passive resistance.

Major Arguments of "The Kingdom of God is Within You":

1. Non-Resistance to Evil: Tolstoy vehemently rejects the use of violence as a means of addressing social and political issues. He argues for non-resistance to evil, emphasizing that responding to violence with violence only perpetuates a cycle of hatred and suffering.

2. Christian Anarchism: Tolstoy advocates for a form of Christian anarchism where individuals voluntarily adhere to the teachings of Christ without the need for institutionalized religious or governmental authority. He critiques the alliance between the church and the state, asserting that true Christianity is incompatible with violence and coercion.

3. Doctrine of Non-Resistance: The central theme of the book revolves around Tolstoy's doctrine of non-resistance, which he derives from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. He contends that the core principles of Christianity, as exemplified by Jesus, include love for one's enemies and the rejection of violence in all its forms.

4. Personal Responsibility: Tolstoy emphasizes individual responsibility in the pursuit of a moral life. He argues that each person has the capacity to live according to the principles of love, compassion, and non-resistance, thereby contributing to the establishment of the kingdom of God on Earth.

5. Rejection of State Authority: Tolstoy critiques the legitimacy of state authority and the use of force to maintain order. He sees government as inherently violent and argues that individuals should not participate in or support institutions that resort to coercion and violence.

Influence on Mahatma Gandhi:

Leo Tolstoy's "The Kingdom of God is Within You" profoundly influenced Mahatma Gandhi, who considered the book a spiritual and philosophical guide. The impact can be seen in the following ways:

1. Development of Satyagraha: Gandhi, inspired by Tolstoy's concept of non-resistance, developed the philosophy of Satyagraha, which translates to "truth-force" or "soul-force." Satyagraha is a form of nonviolent resistance that seeks to transform the opponent through love and moral persuasion rather than coercion.

2. Embrace of Nonviolence: Gandhi was deeply moved by Tolstoy's rejection of violence and his commitment to Christian ideals of love and forgiveness. Tolstoy's influence played a crucial role in shaping Gandhi's unwavering commitment to nonviolence as a central tenet of his philosophy and methodology in the struggle for Indian independence.

3. Critique of State Authority: Tolstoy's criticism of the state and his advocacy for individual responsibility resonated with Gandhi's views on self-governance and the need for individuals to resist unjust laws peacefully. Both thinkers challenged the legitimacy of oppressive state structures.

4. Importance of Truth and Love: Tolstoy's emphasis on truth and love as transformative forces influenced Gandhi's understanding of nonviolent resistance. Gandhi believed that adhering to truth and expressing love even towards adversaries could bring about positive change and social transformation.

In summary, "The Kingdom of God is Within You" had a profound impact on Gandhi, shaping his philosophical and strategic approach to social and political change. Tolstoy's rejection of violence, advocacy for non-resistance, and critique of institutional authority provided the intellectual foundation for Gandhi's development of nonviolent resistance and his pursuit of justice through love and truth. Tolstoy's influence on Gandhi underscores the global resonance of these ideas and their potential to inspire movements for social change and justice.