Category Archives: Animals

The qualities of Buddhahood are gained through sentient beings and Buddhas alike. Why then do we respect the Buddhas and not sentient beings in the same way? ―Atisha

I am a friend of the footless, I am a friend of all bipeds, I am a friend of those with four feet, I am a friend of the many-footed. … May all beings, all who breathe, all beings one … Continue reading →

For beginners training in compassion, the very first task ―if we are going to develop actual, authentic compassion― the very first task that we need to accomplish is to not eat meat. This is the first step to start developing … Continue reading →

We should not kill any living beings, nor cause them to be killed, nor should we incite any other to kill. Do never injure any beings, whether strong or weak, in this entire universe! ―Buddha Shakyamuni, Kshudraka Agama

Some people ask why it is that I advocate so frequently and insistently on universal, radical compassion, especially toward non-human animals. They are of the opinion that a Buddhist monk should concentrate his efforts on sharing a “broader and higher” … Continue reading →

Solitude is happiness for one who is content, who understands the Dharma and clearly sees: non-violence is happiness in this world, harmlessness towards all living beings. ―Buddha Shakyamuni, Udana