Non-violence is backed by the theory of soul-force in which suffering is courted in the hope of ultimately winning over the opponent. But what happens when such an attempt fail to achieve the object? It is here that soul-force has to be combined with physical force so as not to remain at the mercy of tyrannical and ruthless enemy.
Interpretation
Non-violence requires inner strength and can lead to physical resistance if it fails.
This quote by Bhagat Singh highlights the importance of non-violence and the inner strength it demands, known as soul-force. However, it also recognizes the pragmatic necessity of sometimes employing physical force when peaceful efforts do not succeed against oppressive forces, illustrating the balance between moral conviction and the need for resistance against tyranny.
In practice
In a speech advocating for peaceful protests, this quote can emphasize the resolve required to face oppression.
One should not interpret the word “Revolution” in its literal sense. Various meanings and significances are attributed to this word, according to the interests of those who use or misuse it. For the established agencies of exploitation it conjures up a feeling of blood stained horror. To the revolutionaries it is a sacred phrase.
Those revolutionaries who have, by chance, escaped the gallows should live and show to the world that they cannot only embrace gallows for the ideal but also bear the worst type of tortures in the dark, dingy prison cells.
Love always elevates the character of man. It never lowers him, provided love be love
A rebellion is not a revolution. It may ultimately lead to that end.
They may kill me, but they cannot kill my ideas. They can crush my body, but they will not be able to crush my spirit.
Our entire family is replete with sentiments of patriotism. Uncle Swarna Singh left for his heavenly abode in jail in 1910, two or three years after my birth. Uncle Ajit Singh is leading the life of an exile in foreign countries.
When I was picked to fly the X-1, it was my duty to fly it, and I did.
There's nothing, repeat, nothing to be ashamed of when you're going through a depression. If you get help, the chances of your licking it are really good. But, you have to get yourself onto a safe path.
He that fights and runs away, May turn and fight another day; But he that is in battle slain, Will never rise to fight again.
I think it's good to be a little more fearless in saying what you feel. In not being scared of the repercussions of that.
Around us there is the presence of evil. The devil is at work. But in a loud voice I say: GOD IS STRONGER.
I don't want to be a dissident. But in the same time, I don't want to go back home and be silent again.
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