The approach to vegetarianism varies across different Buddhist lineages and traditions. Some Buddhists are vegetarian and some are not. In the Vinaya, the Buddha said that monks should accept what is offered in their bowls, including meat that follows the “triply clean meat” rule—meaning the animal was not seen being killed for the eater; the animal was not heard being killed for the eater; and the animal was not suspected of being killed specifically for the eater.

The Buddha taught that the karmic effect of killing is to shorten one’s life, and eating meat generally requires killing animals. For these reasons, one can practice vegetarianism in combination with a vow of no-killing, and this is considered meritorious, or beneficial.

Vegetarianism is a complicated issue. We can aspire not to cause harm, but there are consequences involved in all our food choices. We have to make up our own minds about whether to eat meat or not based on listening to other points of view, thinking about it, and reflecting on our own choices—in other words, after hearing, contemplation, and meditation.

Many Buddhists eat less meat or become vegetarians for compassionate reasons: life is seen as sacred, and just like us, animals wish to be happy and free from suffering. We can demonstrate tolerance towards those with different views and avoid a self-righteous attitude.

Reflect on their feelings about vegetarianism, explore their feelings around consuming meat and its consequences, and the different rationales for eating or not eating it.

• How can we minimize the suffering caused by our actions?

Formulate a clear rationale for your choice regarding vegetarianism, and evaluate your capacity to demonstrate tolerance and understanding towards those who make different choices.