Vegetarianism in Hinduism
- Vegetarianism in Hinduism
Most major paths of Hinduism hold vegetarianism as an ideal. There are three main reasons for this: the principle of nonviolence (ahimsa) applied to animals; [Tähtinen, Unto: "Ahimsa. Non-Violence in Indian Tradition", London 1976, p. 107-109.] the intention to offer only "pure" (vegetarian) food to a deity and then to receive it back as prasad; [ [http://www.sacred-texts.com/hin/m12/m12b092.htm Mahabharata 12.257] (note that Mahabharata 12.257 is 12.265 according to another count); Bhagavad Gita 9.26; Bhagavata Purana 7.15.7.] and the conviction that non-vegetarian food is detrimental for the mind and for spiritual development. Nonviolence is a common concern of all the vegetarian traditions in Hinduism; the other two aspects are relevant for those who follow special spiritual paths.
Many Vaishnavas, especially Gaudiya Vaishnavas follow a strict vegetarian diet, abstaining from meat, fish and eggs. They also abstain from garlic and onions, because these foods stimulate the central nervous system and disturbe meditation.
However, the food habits of Hindus vary according to their community and according to regional traditions. Hindu vegetarians usually eschew eggs but consume milk and dairy products, so they are lacto-vegetarians. Milk and milk products are vital in the traditional food habits of India. Many coastal habitants of India are also fish eaters.
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