Madeleine Hull
Buddhism is a religion that emphasizes compassion and non-violence, and as a result, many Buddhists are vegetarian or vegan. The Mahayana schools generally recommend a vegetarian diet, claiming that Gautama Buddha stated in some of the sutras that his followers must not eat the flesh of any sentient being. However, the views on vegetarianism vary between different schools of thought, and some Buddhists do eat meat. In Singapore, a significant number of Buddhists adhere to a vegetarian diet known as 素食 (“sū shí,” or Vegetarian meals). This diet not only excludes meat but also pungent vegetables such as garlic, onions, chives, leeks, and shallots. Some Buddhists also avoid eggs and milk.
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What You'll Learn
The Mahayana schools' perspective
The Mahayana schools of Buddhism generally recommend a vegetarian diet, claiming that Gautama Buddha set forth in some of the sutras that his followers must not eat the flesh of any sentient being. The Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra, a Mahayana sutra giving Gautama Buddha's final teachings, says that the Buddha insisted that his followers should not eat any kind of meat or fish. Even vegetarian food that has been touched by meat should be washed before being eaten.
There is a divergence of views within Buddhism as to whether vegetarianism is required, with some schools of Buddhism rejecting such a requirement. Many Buddhist vegetarians also oppose meat-eating based on scriptural injunctions against flesh-eating recorded in Mahayana sutras. The first precept in Buddhism, "I undertake the precept to refrain from taking life", is also cited as a reason to avoid meat consumption.
In Mahayana, the emphasis is on love and compassion for sentient beings. In the Mahayana Sutras, eating meat is forbidden, and that is why it is said that most of the monastics in Mahayana countries became vegetarian and stopped eating meat. The clearest example is China, where vegetarianism as a practice began 500 years after Buddhism spread to the country. Before that, monastics could practice it voluntarily, but it was not obligatory to give up meat. After that, there was a great movement to abandon meat, led by the Emperor Wu of Liang (464–549), who ruled during the Southern Jang dynasty in the 6th Century, 502-549.
Some Mahayana lay Buddhists eat vegetarian diets on specific dates, such as Zhai qi, Bodhi Day, and Great Renunciation days. There are different arrangements of these dates, from several days to three months each year. Some Mahayana lay followers also follow monastic-style vegetarianism on the six-day, ten-day, and Guan-yin vegetarian days, following the lunar calendar schedule. However, most Buddhist lay followers are not vegetarians.
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The Buddha's teachings
The Mahayana schools of Buddhism generally recommend a vegetarian diet, with some sources claiming that Gautama Buddha stated in the sutras that his followers must not eat the flesh of any sentient being. In the Mahāyāna Mahāparinirvāṇa Sūtra, a Mahayana sutra giving Gautama Buddha's final teachings, it is said that the Buddha insisted his followers should not eat any kind of meat or fish, and that they should wash their food with water to remove any meat. It is also stated that they should not pick out the non-meat portions of a meal—the whole meal must be rejected.
However, in the Jivaka Sutta, the Buddha instructs a monk or nun to accept without discrimination any alms offered with goodwill, including meat. The Buddha also refused suggestions by Devadatta to institute vegetarianism in the Sangha. In the Amagandha Sutta in the Sutta Nipata, a vegetarian Brahmin confronts Kassapa Buddha about the evils of eating meat. The Buddha counters by listing acts that cause moral defilement and stating that meat consumption is not equivalent to those acts. There were, however, monastic guidelines prohibiting the consumption of 10 types of meat, including that of humans, elephants, and bears.
Some Buddhists choose to be vegetarian on certain dates, such as Zhai qi, Bodhi Day, and Great Renunciation days. Some Vajrayana practitioners eat meat and drink alcohol, and some Ganachakra traditions prescribe the offering and ingestion of meat and alcohol, although this is now often symbolic.
The consumption of meat is limited, but not prohibited in all branches of Buddhism. Some Buddhists believe that food waste is worse than meat consumption, and so they may eat meat when vegetarian food is not available. Others believe that purchasing meat supports the cruel death of an animal and so choose to be vegetarian or vegan.
Some Buddhists also avoid the five pungent spices: onions, garlic, scallions, chives, and leeks. These are avoided because they are believed to incite feelings of anger when consumed raw, and a sense of lust when cooked.
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The five pungent spices
Vegetarianism is a common practice among Buddhists, especially those following the Mahayana tradition. In addition to abstaining from meat, Buddhists who adhere to dietary restrictions also avoid the "Five Pungent Spices." These spices, also known as "Wǔ Xīn" in Chinese, are believed to have properties that can impact one's spiritual practice. They are thought to stimulate passions and desires, creating obstacles on the path to enlightenment. This belief is deeply rooted in Buddhist philosophy and has influenced the development of unique cooking techniques and flavour profiles in Buddhist cuisine.
The practice of avoiding the Five Pungent Spices has led to creative seasoning in Buddhist cuisine. Herbs, ginger, and other aromatic plants are often used to add flavour to dishes. The preparation and consumption of food are treated as meditative practices, emphasising mindfulness and gratitude. This mindful eating approach is an integral part of Buddhist vegetarianism, ensuring that the act of eating is more than just a physical act but also a spiritual one.
The impact of the Five Pungent Spices restriction extends beyond the culinary realm. It reflects the Buddhist principle of compassion for all beings, including animals. This principle resonates with modern environmental concerns, as plant-based diets are recognised as more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Additionally, scientific research has highlighted the potential health benefits of a plant-based diet, further aligning with Buddhist teachings.
It is important to note that the interpretation of Buddhist vegetarianism can vary among different schools of thought and individual practitioners. While some Buddhists strictly adhere to vegetarianism and avoid the Five Pungent Spices, others may interpret the teachings more flexibly, especially when it comes to avoiding specific spices. Ultimately, the decision to follow a Buddhist vegetarian diet is a personal choice that aligns with an individual's spiritual journey and interpretation of Buddhist philosophy.
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Meat consumption and waste
Meat consumption is a complex issue within Buddhist doctrine, and views vary among practitioners. While some Buddhists adhere to a strictly vegetarian or vegan diet, others may choose to consume meat under certain conditions. However, the fundamental principle guiding Buddhist practice regarding meat consumption is causing minimal harm to all living beings.
In the early Buddhist texts, the Buddha himself is said to have instructed his monastic followers to accept whatever food is given to them without specifying whether it should be meat or not. This instruction was likely given in a cultural context where vegetarianism was not a common or feasible option for most people. However, the Buddha also taught the importance of causing no harm and cultivating compassion for all beings, which has led many Buddhists to interpret that meat consumption should be limited or avoided altogether.
One critical factor in the Buddhist perspective on meat consumption is the understanding of karmic consequences. Buddhists believe that intentionally killing or harming a being, including animals, will create negative karma that can lead to suffering in future lives. Therefore, many Buddhists choose to avoid meat to minimize the risk of contributing to or supporting the act of taking life. This belief also extends to the environmental impact of meat production, as the intensive use of resources and emissions of greenhouse gases contribute to climate change, affecting all beings.
The waste generated by meat production and consumption is a significant concern for Buddhists and others advocating for sustainable and ethical practices. The meat industry is notorious for its inefficient use of resources, with a significant amount of water, land, and energy required to produce a relatively small amount of meat. This inefficiency becomes waste when meat goes uneaten or is discarded due to overproduction or expiration. Buddhists strive to live simply and mindfully, and the wastefulness of the meat industry contradicts these values.
Additionally, the environmental impact of meat production contributes to water pollution, land degradation, and air pollution, further exacerbating the waste issue. The runoff of animal waste and chemicals used in meat production contaminates water sources, while the clearing of land for livestock grazing or feed crop cultivation leads to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity. These impacts are considered harmful not only to the environment but also to all beings that depend on a healthy ecosystem, aligning with the Buddhist principle of causing no harm.
In conclusion, while meat consumption remains a personal choice for Buddhists, the principles of causing no harm and cultivating compassion encourage many practitioners to adopt a vegetarian or vegan diet. The waste and environmental consequences of meat production are significant factors in this decision, as Buddhists strive to live in harmony with all beings and the planet we share.
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Vegetarian-friendly countries
Vegetarianism is a common practice among Buddhists, with significant portions of Mahayana Buddhist monastics and laypersons, as well as some Buddhists from other sects, adopting vegetarian diets. While there are differing views on vegetarianism within Buddhism, with some scriptures suggesting that Buddha did not institute vegetarianism, the Mahayana schools generally recommend a vegetarian diet, claiming that Gautama Buddha instructed his followers to not eat the flesh of any sentient being.
Seychelles
The Seychelles was ranked as the most vegetarian-friendly country in the world by Oliver's Travels, with a high number of vegetarian-friendly restaurants relative to its small population and low annual meat consumption.
Thailand
Thailand has been crowned the most vegetarian-friendly country in Asia by Oliver's Travels and Travel Wire Asia.
India
India has a large vegetarian population due to religious and cultural factors, making it easy for vegetarian travellers to navigate the country.
Taiwan
Taiwan has a substantial number of vegetarians, and the government actively promotes a vegetarian diet for health and environmental reasons.
Germany
Germany, especially its cities, is known for its diverse range of vegetarian-friendly options in markets and eateries.
Canada
Canada, particularly urban areas like British Columbia, Ontario, Montreal, and Vancouver, has seen a noticeable increase in vegetarians and vegans, resulting in a growing number of vegetarian-friendly options.
United States
The US, specifically cities like Seattle and Portland, has a thriving vegetarian scene, with a wide range of exciting vegetarian and vegan food options.
United Kingdom
The UK has witnessed a growing number of vegetarians and vegans, making it more accommodating for those with plant-based diets.
Switzerland
Switzerland boasts the highest density of vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Europe, making it a convenient destination for vegetarian travellers.
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Frequently asked questions
A Buddhist vegetarian diet is a diet that abstains from meat, fish, and pungent vegetables. Some Buddhists also avoid eggs, milk, and alcohol. The Mahayana schools generally recommend a vegetarian diet, claiming that Gautama Buddha set forth in some of the sutras that his followers must not eat the flesh of any sentient being.
Pungent vegetables are vegetables like garlic, onions, chives, leeks, and shallots. The belief is that the consumption of raw pungent vegetables may incite feelings of anger, while the consumption of cooked pungent vegetables may potentially trigger a sense of lust.
Buddhists emphasize compassion and non-violence, which naturally leads to a vegetarian or vegan diet. Some Buddhists also believe that meat consumption is limited and not prohibited in all branches, and that food waste is worse than consuming meat.
