| AhimsaThe doctrine of nonviolence in the Jain religionIn the Jain religion, Ahimsa refers to a central doctrine of the Jain religion, the practice of nonviolence. Ahimsa is usually interpreted as reverance and respect for all life. In practice, it means the avoidance of harm against both humans and animals. Both direct and indirect harm are abhorred, meaning one avoids killing things for food and utility except when absolutely necessary, and also attempts to avoid accidental killing as well. Practicing the former means a spare vegetarian diet and simple or no clothing, while the latter may mean walking instead of driving to avoid killing animals, or wearing a face mask to avoid inadvertently killing small organisms or insects.
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