Jain Vegetarianism

Jain vegetarianism is the diet of the Jains, the followers of Jainism. They have deep compassion for all forms of life. Jainism is an ecologically responsible way of life which is nonviolent in thought, action, and deed. Vegetarianism is for a Jain a way of life and it is seen as an instrument for the practice of nonviolence (ahimsa) and peaceful, cooperative coexistence. Jains are forbidden from committing intentional violence against all mobile living beings. This intentional violence creates harmful karma and the aim of ahimsa is to prevent the accumulation of such karma. A Jain diet is based on the fact that a simple natural diet will help keep their mind pure and peaceful. Jainism tells us that we can only limit violence and avoid unnecessary violence. Non- vegetarianism involves violence which is unnecessary and which can be easily avoided. Most Jains are lacto-vegetarians but more devote Jains do not eat root vegetables because this would involve the killing of plants. Also, some particularly dedicated individuals are fruitarians.