Liberty Magazine from April 1940 - Why I Won’t Join The Oxford Movement by Mahatma Ghandi
Liberty Magazine from April 1940
Why I Won’t Join The Oxford Movement
by Mahatma Ghandi
Title: Liberty Magazine
Date: April 13, 1940
Publisher: Liberty Weekly
Featured Article: Why I Won’t Join The Oxford Movement by Mahatma Gandhi
Description:
This issue of Liberty Magazine (April 13, 1940) features an extraordinary and historically important essay by Mahatma Gandhi: Why I Won’t Join The Oxford Movement. In the article, Gandhi offers a candid and principled response to Dr. Frank Buchman’s Moral Re-Armament campaign, an offshoot of the Oxford Group. While recognizing the Oxford Group’s dedication and sincerity, Gandhi explains why he could not fully align with its movement.
He emphasizes his lifelong commitment to Truth and Non-Violence, praising the Oxford Group’s spiritual fervor while respectfully rejecting its methods. Gandhi’s reflections center on the dangers of institutionalized evangelism and his belief that true spiritual progress comes through personal striving, humility, and listening to God individually. In his words, “I am a believer in the laws of Truth and Non-Violence, and so I can acclaim their emphasis on improving oneself, but I cannot join their membership.”
This essay provides a rare intersection between Gandhi’s philosophy and the Oxford Group’s influence — movements that would shape not only spiritual reform but also, indirectly, the foundations of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Condition Notes:
- Very good condition overall
- Some light wear along the spine and edges
- Mailing label present on cover
- Interior pages show typical age toning, but text and illustrations remain sharp and legible
Collector’s Note:
This magazine is highly desirable for collectors of Oxford Group, Moral Re-Armament, and Alcoholics Anonymous–related history. Gandhi’s essay stands as one of the most significant published critiques of the Oxford Group, offering both affirmation of its ideals and a decisive rejection of its organizational approach.
