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Non-possession implies non-stealing and vice-versa. We should not possess
anything we do not need. We should not be anxious about the future. If
we possess more, that means deprivation of the rightful beneficiaries.
Possession implies attachment. It hinders love and hence full development
of human being. On the social plane, it results in inequalities, miseries,
poverty and discontent. The wants should be reduced. The principle of
non-possessions will thus lead to happier, healthier and contented individual
and social life.
Man is not what he has but what he is. When possessions define man, he
becomes an object and is de-humanised.
One should possess only what is essential for sustenance, for rendering
service to others and for fulfilling the higher purpose of life.
This applies to everything, including thoughts. Crowding of unnecessary
thoughts makes one confused. It may mislead him.
Gandhiji wanted to remove the idea of ownership from society as well as
from the minds of the people. His principle of trusteeship is based on
non-possession.
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