“There is higher court than courts of justice and that is conscience” – Mahatma Gandhi

1. Meaning and significance:

This quote by Mahatma Gandhi emphasizes the importance of personal morality and inner convictions over formal legal systems. Gandhi suggests that while courts of justice are important institutions for maintaining order in society, there exists a more powerful and fundamental arbiter of right and wrong within each individual: their conscience.

The significance of this statement lies in its elevation of personal ethics and moral responsibility. Gandhi implies that true justice and righteous behavior stem from an individual’s internal sense of morality rather than solely from external laws or societal norms. This perspective encourages people to develop and trust their own ethical compass, potentially leading to more thoughtful and principled actions even when formal laws or social pressures might dictate otherwise.

2. Using the quote in an essay:

To effectively use this quote in an essay, one could incorporate it as follows:

In discussing the complex relationship between law and morality, one is reminded of Mahatma Gandhi’s profound observation: “There is higher court than courts of justice and that is conscience.” This statement underscores the vital role of personal ethics in shaping a truly just society. While legal systems provide a necessary framework for social order, Gandhi argues that ultimate moral authority resides within the individual. This perspective challenges us to look beyond mere compliance with written laws and instead cultivate a deep-seated sense of right and wrong. By emphasizing conscience as the highest court, Gandhi’s words invite us to consider how personal integrity and ethical decision-making can complement and even transcend formal legal structures in the pursuit of justice.