Why do Hindus forbid the killing of animals?

Answer 1

Animals are very sacred in Hinduism. Hindus believe that people can occupy the spirits of animals. Therefore, it is forbidden to kill animals or eat meat. Cows are particularly sacred to Hindus.

Answer 2

The original forbidding of killing of animals is based on the principle of compassion, of love, because of the realization that God lives within each being. We should not kill an animal because it shows love of God is missing. It shows lack of compassion for our fellow Souls. One will argue that even a plant has a Soul, has God. Therefore some people do not even eat a fruit which is plucked from a tree, they only eat dried fruits and vegetables that fall off naturally. But beyond the forbidding of the killing of animals, one has to realize God within, more important is to realize the Truth that God is in you and God is in me and God is in everything that moves.

Answer 3

Hindus kill animals; they just don't kill cows as cows and beef are considered sacred.

Answer 4

Traditionally cows/cattle are held sacred by Hindus and are neither harmed nor eaten.

Answer 5

No, hindus practice non-violence