Does Hinduism Forbid The Eating Of Meat?
This is probably one of the most hotly debated subjects for Hindus. The important ideology to remember is that Hinduism does not give us a list of do’s and don’ts, it provides a collection of very profound teachings that allow us to learn and use our own wisdom to govern the actions we take. A Hindu that lays down ‘commandments’ that have to be satisfied by all Hindus, may be misguided in his or her understanding of this intricate guide to a pure, balanced and compassionate way of life. The basis of guiding the Hindu towards vegetarianism is the Dharmic law of Ahimsa, non-injury (physically or mentally) to other living creatures. There are many scriptures that point towards this, for instance, Manusmriti declares that one should refrain from eating all kinds of meat, for such eating involves killing and leads to Karmic bondage (Bandh) [5.49]. In the Vedic literature, the last of the great Vedic kings, Maharaja Parikshit, is quoted as saying that only the animal-killer cannot relish the
