Tolstoyan movement

Chertkov with tolstoy

Tolstoy organising famine relief in Samara, 1891

Gandhi Tolstoy Farm

Tolstoyan movement refers to the social and religious philosophy adopted by followers of the famous Russian writer and thinker, Leo Tolstoy, whose late-life ideas influenced various aspects of nonviolent resistance, education, and spiritual and social reform. The movement, which emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, draws heavily on Tolstoy's unique interpretation of Christian teachings, emphasizing pacifism, vegetarianism, poverty, and the rejection of personal property.

Origins and Beliefs

The origins of the Tolstoyan movement can be traced back to Tolstoy's profound spiritual crisis in the 1870s, which led him to a radical reinterpretation of Christian ethics. His seminal works, The Kingdom of God Is Within You and What I Believe, outline his philosophical and religious beliefs, which criticize the church, state, and military, advocating instead for a life based on the teachings of Jesus Christ without the institutional and dogmatic trappings of organized religion.

Tolstoy's philosophy espouses nonviolence as a fundamental principle, influencing later figures such as Mahatma Gandhi in the development of satyagraha, his method of nonviolent resistance. Tolstoyans strive to live in truth, practicing love, compassion, and non-resistance to evil by force. They often adopt a simple lifestyle, renouncing physical pleasures and material possessions in favor of spiritual and moral development.

Tolstoyan Communities

The movement led to the establishment of several Tolstoyan communities worldwide, from Russia to the United States and the United Kingdom. These communities aimed to embody Tolstoy's ideals, living cooperatively without personal property, often engaging in agricultural labor and educational endeavors. One notable example is the Tolstoy Farm in South Africa, founded by Gandhi as a model of communal living and a center for his satyagraha campaign.

Impact and Legacy

The Tolstoyan movement had a significant impact on the development of pacifist thought and practice in the 20th century. Its influence can be seen in various peace movements and in the work of individuals dedicated to social and political change through nonviolent means. Despite the decline in active Tolstoyan communities, Tolstoy's ideas continue to inspire individuals and groups advocating for peace, social justice, and environmental sustainability.

Criticism and Challenges

The movement has faced criticism and challenges, both from external sources and within its ranks. The practical application of Tolstoy's ideals—such as absolute nonviolence and the rejection of property—proved difficult for many followers, leading to debates and divisions among Tolstoyans. Additionally, the movement's radical critique of government and religion attracted state surveillance and repression, particularly in Russia under Tsarist and later Soviet rule.

Conclusion

The Tolstoyan movement represents a unique blend of religious, social, and political thought, grounded in the personal transformation of its adherents towards a more just and peaceful society. While not as widespread as in its heyday, the movement's core ideals continue to resonate, offering insights into the power of nonviolence and the potential for individual and collective change.

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