the origins of veganism

Before the term "vegan" was conceived in 1944, the concept of abstaining from animal products and following a compassionate lifestyle has historical and cultural roots engrained in Asia.

Ahimsa अहिंसा 

Sanskrit /

Is an ethical concept in Vedic texts dated over 2500 years ago that states respect and non-violence for all living things. The notion is that all acts of violence have karmic consequences.

In ancient India, particularly within the religious and philosophical systems of Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, Islam and Sikhism, there are strong traditions of vegetarianism and ahimsa (non-violence) towards all living beings. These traditions emphasized the ethical treatment of animals and not exploiting them for food and the avoidance of harming all living beings, including through deeds, words, and thoughts.

While veganism as a defined lifestyle may not have originated in West Asia, (also known as the Middle East), there are several factors within the region's culinary traditions and cultural practices that align.

In Middle Eastern cuisine, several iconic dishes are inherently vegan, showcasing diverse flavors and cooking techniques. Ingredients such as legumes (chickpeas, lentils), grains (rice, bulgur wheat), vegetables (eggplant, tomatoes, cucumbers), herbs and spices, and olive oil form the foundation of many traditional dishes. In some religious and cultural practices, there are periods of fasting or dietary restrictions that align with veganism.

The earliest followers of a ‘vegan lifestyle’ include Buddha or Siddhārtha Gautama in Sanskrit, who lived in South Asia during the 5th or 6th century BCE (Before Common Era). He embarked on a long journey in total poverty in search of enlightenment, which formed the Buddhist faith. On this path, he advocated for a strict meat-free and cruelty-free diet, calling for humankind to prevent animal suffering.

In the 10th century BCE, the Arab philosopher and poet Al-Maʿarri abstained from animal products for his health and beliefs on the transmigration of souls and animal welfare. 

The modern vegan lifestyle finds its roots in a culmination of these historical influences, ethical considerations, and cultural practices. Notably, some of the earliest and most influential instances of meatless cultures come from India. The advent of Buddhism and Jainism from this region significantly influenced vegan diets, not only in Asia but also across Europe and the rest of the world!

The hand with a wheel on the palm symbolizes the Jain Vow of Ahimsa. 

Ahimsa is the word in the middle and the wheel represents dharmacakra, symbolizing the commitment to break the cycle of reincarnation, the unwavering and relentless pursuit of truth and non-violence.

"May all beings look at me with a friendly eye, may I do likewise, and may we look at each other with the eyes of a friend”

-Rig Veda, sukta 10.22.25