Animals in Buddhism

Buddha Worshipped in Jungle by Animals - Middle Architrave - Rear Side - East Gateway - Stupa 1 - Sanchi Hill 2013-02-21 4462

Animals in Buddhism

Animals depicted in a Buddhist temple

Animals in Buddhism hold significant symbolic and spiritual importance. In Buddhism, animals are often seen as sentient beings that are part of the cycle of samsara, the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. The treatment and perception of animals in Buddhism are influenced by the principles of karma and ahimsa (non-violence).

Symbolism and Representation

Animals are frequently depicted in Buddhist art and literature. They symbolize various qualities and teachings of the Buddha. For example:

• The lion represents strength and courage and is often associated with the Buddha himself.
• The elephant symbolizes mental strength and is associated with the story of the Buddha's birth.
• The deer is linked to the Buddha's first sermon in the Deer Park at Sarnath.

Jataka Tales

The Jataka tales are a collection of stories about the previous lives of the Buddha, in both human and animal forms. These stories illustrate moral lessons and the practice of Bodhisattva virtues. Animals in these tales often embody virtues such as self-sacrifice, compassion, and wisdom.

The Five Precepts

One of the Five Precepts in Buddhism is to abstain from killing any living being. This precept underscores the importance of compassion towards all sentient beings, including animals. Many Buddhists practice vegetarianism or veganism as a way to adhere to this precept.

Rebirth and Karma

In Buddhist belief, animals are part of the six realms of existence in the cycle of samsara. The animal realm is considered one of the lower realms, where beings experience suffering due to ignorance and delusion. However, animals can accumulate good karma and be reborn into higher realms, including the human realm, where they have a better chance of attaining enlightenment.

Animals in Buddhist Rituals

Animals are sometimes involved in Buddhist rituals and ceremonies. For example, in some traditions, animals are released as an act of compassion and to generate good karma. This practice, known as life release, involves saving animals that are destined for slaughter and setting them free.

Related Concepts

• Ahimsa
• Bodhisattva
• Karma
• Samsara
• Rebirth

See Also

• Buddhist art
• Jataka tales
• Five Precepts
• Six realms of existence
• Life release