Moral Status of Animals in The Ancient World - Hinduism and Buddhism

Hinduism and Buddhism

Further information: Ahimsa, Animals in Buddhism, Buddhist vegetarianism, and Cattle in religion

Both Hindu and Buddhist societies saw widespread vegetarianism from the 3rd century BCE, in line with ahimsa, the doctrine of non-violence. Ryder writes that animals were thought to possess the same feelings as human beings, and several kings of ancient India built hospitals for sick animals. Human souls could be reborn as animals if they had behaved badly, with all souls regarded as part of the Supreme Being. Failing to observe the duty to care could lead to bad karma, which increased the likelihood of returning as an animal next time round.