The respect foranimal rights in Jainism, Hinduism, and Buddhism derives from the doctrine ofahimsa.[1][2]
In Hinduism, animals contain a soul just like humans; when sentient beings die, they can either bereincarnated as a human or as an animal.[3]
These beliefs have resulted in many Hindus practicing vegetarianism, whileJain doctrine mandates vegetarianism based on itsstrict interpretation of the doctrine of ahimsa.[3] Mahayana Buddhists similarly practice vegetarianism and Mahayana Buddhism prohibits the killing of animals.[4]
Almost everyJain community in India has established animal hospitals to care for injured and abandoned animals.[4] Many Jains also rescue animals from slaughterhouses.[4]
Hinduism teaches that a part of God resides in all living things, which forms theatman.[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 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]
These religions emphasizeahimsa, which is the principle of non-violence towards all living things. The first precept is a prohibition against the killing of any creature. The Jain, Hindu and Buddhist injunctions against killing serve to teach that all creatures are spiritually equal.
{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)The main reason for Hindu respect for animal rights is the principle of ahimsa. According to the principle of ahimsa, no living thing should be harmed. This applies to humans and animals. The Jains' belief system takes the principle of ahimsa regarding animals so seriously that as well as being strict vegetarians, some followers wear masks to prevent them breathing in insects. They may also sweep paths with a small broom to make sure they do not tread on any living creatures.
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