Ahimsa and Vegetarianism

Hindus advocate the practice of ahi ṃsā (non-violence) and respect for all life because divinity is believed to permeate all beings, including plants and non-human animals.   The term ahi ṃsā appears in the Upanishads, the epic Mahabharata and Ahi ṃsā is the first of the five Yamas (vows of self-restraint) in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras.

In accordance with ahi ṃsā, many Hindus embrace vegetarianism to respect higher forms of life . While vegetarianism is not a requirement, it is recommended for a satvic (purifying) lifestyle . Estimates of the number of lacto vegetarians in India (includes inhabitants of all religions) vary between 20% and 42%.   The food habits vary with the community and region, for example some castes having fewer vegetarians and coastal populations relying on seafood.   Some Hindus avoid onion and garlic, which are regarded as rajasic foods.   Some avoid meat on specific holy days.

Observant Hindus who do eat meat almost always abstain from beef . The largely pastoral Vedic people and subsequent generations relied heavily on the cow for protein-rich milk and dairy products, tilling of fields and as a provider of fuel and fertilizer . Thus, it was identified as a caretaker and a maternal figure . Hindu society honors the cow as a symbol of unselfish giving . Cow-slaughter is legally banned in almost all states of India.

Hingedmind provides the following information on Hinduism as a starting point for better understanding.  We encourage you to explore the links section and the various pages on Hinduism.   Also, take the time to search on the web for specifics concerning your search.  

Hingedmind does not promote or endorse a religion, belief system, or practice.   Hingedmind believes no path is a wrong path.   Each individual is accountable for his or her path and decisions.   Hingedmind provides this information only as a reference and is not responsible for content authenticity or accuracy.