Vegetarianism: A Buddhist View

How does what you eat affect you and your world?
Is there a connection between vegetarianism and living
a spiritual life?

A trained vet, respected teacher, and happy vegan,
Bodhipaksa answers all of these questions and
more. Tackling issues such as genetically modified
vegetables and modern ways of producing food, he
dispels widespread myths and reflects upon the diets
dominant in the contemporary West. In comparison,
he considers the diets of wandering monks in ancient
India and the diet of the Buddha himself.

By considering why people eat meat and relating this
to Buddhist ethics, Bodhipaksa explores habits and the
possibility of change. He takes a positive view of the
benefits of vegetarianism, and shows practically how
to maintain a healthy and balanced vegan or vegetarian
lifestyle. This exploration shows how a meat-free life
can not only lighten the body but also the soul.

A BUDDHIST VIEW series examines key issues
from a Buddhist perspective, offering practical
guidance for living in the 21st century.

Bodhipaksa (Graeme Stephen) was born in Scotland,
and currently lives and teaches in New Hampshire.
He has been practicing Buddhism since 1982, has
been a member of the Triratna Buddhist Order
since 1993, and runs the online meditation centre
wildmind.org.