The 22 Vows by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
- I shall have no faith in Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwara nor shall I worship them.
This vow rejects the Hindu trinity that represents the structure justifying caste hierarchy. - I shall have no faith in Rama and Krishna who are believed to be incarnations of God nor shall I worship them.
Rama and Krishna symbolize divine sanction of the varna system; rejecting them is rejecting caste-based theology. - I shall have no faith in Gauri, Ganapati, and other Hindu gods and goddesses nor shall I worship them.
This breaks dependence on the Hindu pantheon and ritualistic worship. - I do not believe in the incarnation of God.
Affirms rationality and the rejection of mystical beliefs. - I do not and shall not believe that Lord Buddha was the incarnation of Vishnu. I believe this to be sheer madness and false propaganda.
Protects the independent identity of Buddhism from assimilation into Hinduism. - I shall not perform Shraddha nor shall I give pind-daan.
These are Brahminical rituals tied to caste; rejecting them affirms autonomy over spiritual practice. - I shall not act in a manner violating the principles and teachings of the Buddha.
Commits one to moral conduct as prescribed by the Buddha. - I shall not allow any ceremonies to be performed by Brahmins.
Breaks reliance on the Brahmin priesthood and caste-based rituals. - I shall believe in the equality of man.
Affirms a fundamental humanist value central to Buddhism and democracy. - I shall endeavour to establish equality.
Goes beyond belief, urging active work toward an egalitarian society. - I shall follow the Noble Eightfold Path of the Buddha.
Commits to a structured ethical and mindful way of life. - I shall follow the Ten Paramitas prescribed by the Buddha.
These perfections (like truth, patience, generosity) cultivate a virtuous character. - I shall have compassion and loving-kindness for all living beings and protect them.
Affirms non-violence and universal empathy. - I shall not steal.
Establishes moral discipline and respect for others’ property. - I shall not tell lies.
Encourages truthfulness and trustworthiness. - I shall not commit sexual misconduct.
Promotes respectful and ethical behavior in relationships. - I shall not take intoxicants like liquor, drugs, etc.
Supports clarity of mind and moral discipline. - I shall try to follow the Noble Eightfold Path and practice compassion and loving-kindness in daily life.
Reiterates the practical application of Buddhist values in everyday life. - I shall not believe in rituals and ceremonies that are useless or superstitious.
Rejects superstition and promotes rational thought. - I shall believe in the equality of all human beings.
Restates a core value of social justice and human dignity. - I shall endeavour to establish a society based on liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Echoes the values of the Indian Constitution authored by Ambedkar. - I shall consider the Buddha as my only teacher, Dhamma as my only path, and Sangha as my only refuge.
This is the final declaration of commitment to Buddhism and its core community and teachings.
Summary Table
| Vow Range | Theme |
|---|---|
| 1–6 | Rejection of Hindu deities and rituals |
| 7–12 | Commitment to Buddhist doctrine |
| 13–17 | Moral discipline and ethical conduct |
| 18–22 | Rational living and social justice |
Why the 22 Vows Matter Today
- Rejection of Caste-Based Oppression: These vows are a direct challenge to caste hierarchy and religious justification of inequality.
- Promotion of Rationalism: Encourages critical thinking over superstition and dogma.
- Spiritual Empowerment: Provides Dalits and marginalized communities with a path of dignity and moral autonomy.
- Alignment with Social Movements: The vows echo the values of gender, LGBTQ+, and worker justice movements.
- Counter to Religious Majoritarianism: Promotes secularism and fraternity in a diverse society.
- Ethical Living: Encourages compassion, non-violence, and mindfulness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the 22 Vows?
They mark a rejection of caste-based Hinduism and a commitment to rational, ethical living based on Buddhist principles.
Why did Dr. Ambedkar choose Buddhism?
Because it does not sanction caste and promotes equality, rationality, and compassion.
Are these vows still relevant today?
Yes. They remain a powerful statement against inequality, injustice, and blind faith in modern India.
What is Navayana Buddhism?
Navayana, or the “New Vehicle,” is Ambedkar’s reinterpretation of Buddhism focusing on social justice, equality, and rationalism.
Where were the 22 vows administered?
They were administered at Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur on October 14, 1956.
Who took the 22 vows with Dr. Ambedkar?
About 500,000 Dalits converted to Buddhism along with Dr. Ambedkar.
Is it necessary to convert to Buddhism to follow these vows?
While rooted in Buddhist ethics, many follow the values of these vows without formal conversion.
How do the vows align with the Indian Constitution?
They echo the Constitution’s values of liberty, equality, and fraternity—principles that Ambedkar himself enshrined.
Can non-Dalits take the 22 vows?
Yes. The vows advocate universal values and are open to anyone seeking an egalitarian, rational path.
Are the 22 vows anti-Hindu?
They are not anti-Hindu people but reject Hinduism’s caste-based structure and superstitions.
What is the role of women in Ambedkarite Buddhism?
Ambedkar’s Buddhism promotes gender equality and the full participation of women in spiritual and social life.
How are the 22 vows relevant to youth?
They encourage critical thinking, self-respect, and a commitment to ethical living values vital for youth development.
Are there celebrations related to the 22 vows?
Yes, October 14 is commemorated annually at Deekshabhoomi and by Ambedkarite communities across India and the world.
What are the Ten Paramitas?
They are ten Buddhist perfections: generosity, morality, renunciation, wisdom, effort, patience, truth, determination, loving-kindness, and equanimity.
How can I learn more about the 22 vows?
You can explore Ambedkarite literature, attend Buddhist study circles, or visit Deekshabhoomi and related cultural sites.
Conclusion
The 22 vows are more than spiritual statements—they are a moral, social, and political compass. They guide millions toward a life of dignity, equality, and purpose. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s legacy continues to empower generations in India and globally.