How does Jainism affect food choices?

For Jains, vegetarianism is mandatory. In the Jain context, Vegetarianism excludes all animal products except dairy products. Food is restricted to that originating from plants, since plants have only one sense (‘ekindriya’) and are the least developed form of life, and dairy products.

Do Jains eat grains?

During fasting only food prepared from grains is consumed and no green vegetables or fruits are eaten. In context of “root vegetables and fruits,” most modern day Jains have devised self-imposed restrictions, not sanctioned by the religion.

Why don t members of the Jain faith abstain from consumption of root vegetables?

It is our goal to limit violence as much as possible. The extent of this limitation of violence in dietary practices includes that Jains avoid consuming root vegetables. This is because root vegetables tend to have many more microorganisms which are killed when the plant is consumed.

Can Jains eat cheese?

On the eighth and fourteenth days of the lunar cycle many orthodox Jains won’t eat fruit or green vegetables only food from grain. Perhaps surprisingly, milk and cheese are part of Jain cuisine. Some Jains are vegans but it’s not required by the tenets of Jainism.

Is milk allowed in Jainism?

Some Jains only eat or drink in the daytime. What do Jains eat then? Perhaps surprisingly, milk and cheese are part of Jain cuisine. Some Jains are vegans but it’s not required by the tenets of Jainism.

What should Young Jains be concerned with?

Young Jains should be concerned with the truth and they ought to know that the religious leaders in the temple are trying to lead them away from it — as most religious leaders everywhere do. The fact that even the most outspoken atheists put on kid gloves when dealing with it is upsetting.

What do Jains believe about animals?

Jains believe that animals, plants, humans (irrespective of different spiritual development) all have a living soul in them and all should be treated with equal respect and love. 2. Strictly Vegetarian

What are the Jain rules regarding a vegetarian diet?

The Jain rules regarding a vegetarian diet seem like they’re made up on the spot. Eggs are bad, but milk is ok. Potatoes and other food from the ground are bad, but there are exceptions depending on the day. Alcohol is forbidden, but young Jains go to bars all the time.

What is ahimsa in Jainism?

(a) Ahimsa – Jains believe in complete non-violence. They believe that even mental torture (harsh words or actions) should be avoided at all costs. (b) Asteya – Never steal anything from someone else’s possession. They believe that even when accepting help or aid from someone, one shouldn’t take more than what is the minimum needed.