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What Religion Does Not Eat Onions and Garlic?

Published in Religion 1 min read

The religion that generally avoids consuming onions and garlic is Jainism.

Jainism and Dietary Restrictions

Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that emphasizes non-violence and self-control. These principles extend to their dietary practices, which are known as ahimsa (non-violence).

Jains believe that onions and garlic have a life force and consuming them results in the unintentional killing of living organisms. This is because onions and garlic are believed to have a root system that contains microscopic life forms.

Other Dietary Restrictions in Jainism

Besides onions and garlic, Jains also avoid:

  • Root vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, radishes, etc.
  • Mushrooms and fungi
  • Some types of fruits: Fruits that grow underground or are attached to the root system, such as watermelons.

These restrictions vary depending on the individual Jain's level of observance.

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