WHAT IS AHINSA?

Ahinsã is not just non-violence. It also encompasses respect and consideration for life and peaceful, harmonious living.

Explanation:
The Concept of AhinsãAhinsã is the feeling that attempts to reduce harm to all living creatures. The concept of Ahinsã is meant to be practiced by:

thought - not having thoughts of ill-will towards others
word - not using speech to slander or malign others
deed - not performing violent physical actions

In renowned Hindu scriptures such as the Mahãbhãrat (3-207-7), the Vãsudev Mãhãtmya (20/21), and the Padma Purãn (1.31.27), Ahinsã is referred to as the highest virtue of life: Ahinsã paramo dharma. Bhagwãn Swãminãrayan has referred to the practice of Ahinsã throughout His Shikshãpatri - the code of conduct for devotees:

“All scriptures advocate Ahinsã as the highest dharma.”(Verse 12)
“My devotees should not harm any living being. They should not intentionally harm even small insects.” (Verse 11)
“Even for performing yagnas (ceremonial and divine sacrifices) to please deities or ancestors, no harm should be inflicted on any living being.” (Verse 12)
“Even for acquiring women, wealth or a kingdom, one should never, in any way, harm or kill any person.” (Verse 155)

Vegetarianism:

An Application of AhinsãA practical application of Ahinsã seen in Hinduism is vegetarianism - as it fosters the sentiment of respect for other living creatures. The most ancient Hindu scriptures curbed the practice of killing animals by imposing strict ritualistic regulations which are very difficult to ordinarily meet.

Those who were following the spiritual path and wanted to attain God were prohibited altogether from killing animals and consuming animal flesh because such consumption hinders spiritual progress. Hindu scriptures say that killing animals and consuming their flesh leads to violence in our thoughts and behavior.

It spoils one’s character and obstructs one’s acquisition of noble virtues. Today, some people feel that because they are not actually killing the animal themselves, eating the flesh and other body parts of a dead animal does not violate the code of Ahinsã. However, Hindus consider the consumption of dead animal flesh to be a barbaric practice.