Comparison

Nonviolence Across Buddhism, Jainism and Yoga

Published 28 June 2026

How related traditions interpret non-killing, non-injury and responsibility for indirect harm.

A shared term with different scope

Ahimsa is central to Jain and Yoga traditions and closely parallels the first Buddhist precept. The traditions differ over absolute application, intention, occupation, diet, indirect participation and the demands placed on monastics and householders.

Direct and indirect harm

A serious comparison must examine not only deliberate violence but also economic support, negligence, environmental damage and harm to animals.

Difficult cases

Medical treatment, agriculture, self-defence and protection of others show why a general commitment to nonviolence still requires judgment about competing harms.

Codes and paths discussed

Rules, principles and steps discussed

Ethical themes

  • Nonviolence
  • Treatment of animals
  • Compassion

Sources