What Can Buddhists not eat/drink?

Answer 1

It is NOT COMPULSORY for buddhists to be vegetarian, but being vegetarian is encouraged. That means to say, buddhists still can eat meat, though in most circumstances, it is still discouraged (but not compulsory).

The 5 precepts in Buddhism practised by layman buddhists do not include "no meat-eating". It only says "no killing". Technically speaking, a buddhist tries not to eat meat because he will indirectly contribute to the demand for killing (thus result in indirect killing).

As for monastery community, only Mahayana Buddhist monastery circle (predominantly Chinese buddhist monastery - monks/nuns) are strictly vegetarian.

Tibetan monks (AFAIK) still eat meat and Theravada buddhist monastery (such as Sri Lanka/Thailand) does not practise strict vegetarian. That's why you will still see Sri Lankan Monks eating meat.

(Note: there is nothing to be surprised about that. This is a commonly asked question by those who are new to buddhism)

Answer 2

I'm a strict Buddhist and the only thing I'm barred from eating is Christians and Shintoists. I'm allowed to drink anything I fancy but should stay away from tea.

Answer 3

Most of my family are buddhists and the only thing they can't eat is beef. They are even allowed to drink alcohol in small quantities.

Answer 4

Much of the Buddhist teaching can be related to the term 'Do no Harm'.

That is for all beings including themselves.

As such it can be taken as read that they take an ethical viewpoint on thier consumption.

Answer 5

Too much of eating and drinking is not good for your health, don't you reckon?

For a good Buddhist drinking any thing other than liquor is OK.But it is better if you can avoid eating meat specially Beef,Pork,Mutton..etc..

Answer 6

I'm certain Buddhists are strict vegetarians, much the way the Hindus are. I'm pretty sure alcohol is also forbidden as it is in the Islamic faith.

Answer 7

they can't eat meat or drink wine or beer and no dating or marrying - that is for monk

but being a buddhist for religion you can eat anything you like - that is if buddhist is your religion

Answer 8

Other Buddhists.

Answer 9

Apart from monks, most Buddhists don't have hard and fast rules - but it's better if they're vegetarians, and I think most would agree that if they can they should go for "ethical" foods - FairTrade and that sort of thing.

Answer 10

it is any opposite direction around: you're able to desire to consume, drink and positioned on clothing basically given which you have no longer attained enlightenment yet. do no longer difficulty approximately that - basically consume, drink and positioned on clothing with out attachment and it is mostly a help instead of obstruction for you.