Religion must mainly be a matter of principles only. It cannot be a matter of rules. The moment it degenerates into rules, it ceases to be a religion, as it kills responsibility which is an essence of the true religious act.

In this quote, B. R. Ambedkar, a prominent social reformer and the architect of the Indian Constitution, argues that religion should primarily be based on principles rather than rigid rules. According to Ambedkar, when religion becomes overly focused on rules and dogma, it loses its essence, as it stifles the individual's responsibility and moral agency. Religion, for him, should be a guide for inner spiritual development and personal growth, not merely a system of external regulations that people follow without thought or choice.

Ambedkar’s statement reflects his belief in the empowerment of individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities, to make moral and ethical decisions based on their own understanding, rather than being bound by prescriptive rituals or codes. He suggests that true religion should encourage personal responsibility, where individuals actively engage with their beliefs and live according to ethical principles—such as justice, compassion, and equality—rather than simply following predefined rules without deeper reflection.

The origin of this quote lies in Ambedkar's critique of traditional Hinduism and other religious systems that he believed perpetuated inequality, oppression, and a lack of personal autonomy. As someone who had experienced the deep discrimination of the Dalit (untouchable) caste, Ambedkar was deeply concerned with the ways religion could be misused to uphold social hierarchies and subjugation. His efforts in promoting Buddhism as an alternative to caste-based discrimination reflected his desire for a religion that emphasized principles of equality, personal integrity, and spiritual liberation.

Ultimately, Ambedkar’s quote calls for a vision of religion that is dynamic, personal, and based on ethical reflection, rather than one that is constrained by dogmatic rules. For him, religion should be a source of personal empowerment and responsibility, urging individuals to live by principles of justice and compassion, rather than merely adhering to a set of prescribed behaviors. Through this perspective, religion can become a force for social transformation, encouraging moral growth rather than perpetuating mindless conformity.