Animal rights in Indian religions
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The respect for animal rights in Jainism, Hinduism, and Buddhism derives from the doctrine of ahimsa.[1][2]
In Hinduism, animals contain a soul just like humans; when sentient beings die, they can either be reincarnated as a human or as an animal.[3]
These beliefs have resulted in many Hindus practicing vegetarianism, while Jain doctrine mandates vegetarianism based on its strict interpretation of the doctrine of ahimsa.[3] Mahayana Buddhists similarly practice vegetarianism and Mahayana Buddhism prohibits the killing of animals.[4]
Jainism
Hinduism
Hinduism teaches that a part of God resides in all living things, which forms the atman.[5] As such, reverence and respect for animals is taught.[5]
In Hinduism, many animals are venerated, including the tiger, the elephant, the mouse, and especially, the cow.[4]
Mahatma Gandhi is noted for his compassion to all living things; he advocated against animal experimentation and animal cruelty.[4]
Mahayana Buddhism
Mahayana Buddhism teaches that "we can only escape our own suffering if we avoid inflicting it on others."[4] Mahayana Buddhists practice vegetarianism to this end.[4]