There isn't one single religion that universally prohibits the consumption of mutton. However, vegetarianism is practiced within several religions, leading many adherents to abstain from eating mutton. These religions include Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism.
While these religions don't explicitly forbid eating mutton for all followers, significant portions of their adherents practice vegetarianism as a core tenet or interpret their religious texts in a way that encourages or mandates abstaining from meat, including mutton. This decision often stems from beliefs in non-violence (ahimsa), reincarnation, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
For example:
- Hinduism: While many Hindus consume meat, a considerable number, especially Brahmins and those belonging to certain sects, are vegetarian. The principle of ahimsa, or non-violence, is a significant factor in this dietary choice.
- Buddhism: Although the Buddha did not explicitly prohibit meat consumption for his followers, many Buddhists, particularly in the Mahayana tradition, practice vegetarianism. They believe that avoiding meat aligns with the principles of compassion and reducing harm to sentient beings.
- Taoism: Similar to Buddhism, some Taoists adhere to vegetarian diets as part of their spiritual practice, emphasizing harmony with nature and avoiding the taking of life.
Therefore, while no major religion has a blanket ban on mutton consumption for all its followers, significant numbers within Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism choose not to eat mutton as part of their vegetarian or vegan practices stemming from religious beliefs.
