Hindus believe that because life is cyclical , all animals and plants are part of one harmonious creation
What Hindus believe about ahuimsa
Ahimsa means non-violence and respect for all life , and is a key teaching in Hinduism
Applying this teaching means living sustainably and, for most Hindus, following a vegetarian diet
How Hindus apply ahimsa to different situations in life
Hindus believe they should treat the earth’s resources with respect and not use more than is needed
They practice sustainability (only using natural resources at a rate which they can be replaced), for example 2300 young trees were planted to replace the oak used in building the Neasden Temple in London
Many Hindus follow a vegetarian diet
Hindus are encouraged to apologise to plants and animals when they use them for food or make things from them
Why many Hindus are vegetarian
Animals are part of the life cycle and should not be harmed
Killing animals for meat causes them suffering
Hindus breath (which is used for the holy scriptures) should not be associated with killing animals
Not eating meat is a sign of religious purity
Certain plants and animals are sacred because of their medicinal properties or association with deities
In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna recommends eating pure foods like fruit, vegetables, grains and milk products
