Buddhism:
AN Overview
Introduction
The first Buddhist precept states clearly and simply, “Do not kill.” Non-harm (ahimsa) is core to Buddhist ethics. Reincarnation supports a philosophy of interconnection and oneness: souls move from body to body across eons so that all human beings have, at some point in time, been every other kind of living being. These core teachings offer strong protection for all species and require choosing vegan. Additionally, Buddhist stories depict all living beings as sensitive, thinking individuals, and as kin, who matter morally and spiritually. Nonetheless, some Buddhists maintain practices that harm and destroy life, but engaged Buddhism and contemporary Buddhist animal activists are working for change.
Texts & Teachings
Buddhism offers a philosophy of interconnection and a core ethic of non-harm—how we treat other animals is morally and spiritually important.
Non-harm (ahimsa) is core to Buddhist ethics.
“Do not kill” is the first Buddhist precept.
Buddhist philosophy teaches of interconnection across species and oneness.
Diet
Core Buddhist ethics and philosophy require choosing vegan.
Buddhism rests on a core ethic of non-harm.
The first Buddhist precept is, “Do not kill.”
Buddhism teaches that the souls of other animals are our kin.
Sacred Stories
Buddhist stories remind that core ethics of non-harm and compassion apply across species.
A Jataka story of a hunting king and the deer teaches compassion for all beings.
A Jataka story of an elder and two adopted pigs teaches compassion and veganism.
Abusive Traditions
In addition to eating animal products, some Buddhists harm and even kill animals in blood sacrifice, through buy-and-release, or for profit.
Activism
Buddhism has a strong tradition of activism on behalf of the downtrodden (including animals), as exemplified by the Buddha, bodhisattvas, King Ashoka, and those practicing Engaged Buddhism today.
The Buddha and bodhisattvas chose to remain on earth and teach others after attaining nirvana.
King Ashoka turned away from bloodshed and spoke passionately for other species after becoming a Buddhist.
Thich Nhat Hanh founded Engaged Buddhism when he left world-renouncing monastic practice as a Zen monk to work against violence.
Relevant Publication by Tapestry:
AMORE
Vegan Ethics
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