04. Exploring Vegetarianism: Beyond Beliefs and Concepts

When we talk about ‘reality,’ we’re referring to something that’s universally acknowledged by all beings, sentient or not. It’s not just a human-centric idea. Concepts, on the other hand, are subjective and can be seen as both ‘real’ and ‘unreal’ depending on who’s looking at them. They’re flexible and can be challenged or even dismissed.

Take the idea of being ‘vegetarian,’ for instance. In India, it’s a lifestyle choice for many, deeply rooted in tradition or personal values. Some are born into it, while others choose it later in life for ethical reasons or simply because they prefer vegetarian cuisine. But this status isn’t set in stone; it can evolve.

The notion that vegetables are ‘less sentient’ or choosing vegetarian food over non-vegetarian options is influenced by various factors like personal taste, culture, or religion. For many vegetarians, their diet excludes meat, eggs, and certain veggies like onions and garlic. Some even view this dietary choice with a sense of superiority or reverence.

My curiosity about vegetarianism led me to an experiment with a money plant at home. I noticed that with just water, the plant sprouted new leaves without changing its essential composition. It dawned on me that the plant’s material was no different from the water it absorbed when combined with air and sunlight. This observation extended to animals like sheep or goats eating grass—they’re all made of the same stuff. The distinction between ‘vegetarian’ and ‘non-vegetarian’ lies not in the material but in our mind.

Here’s another thought: if a vegetarian person stops eating for a few days, they lose weight because their body starts consuming its own flesh—essentially digesting non-vegetarian elements within. This suggests that deep down, we’re all cannibals by nature. Yet, many identify as vegetarians for social acceptance.

If we view all organic matter—air, water, veggies, meat—as just different forms of food, the lines between life forms start to blur. This challenges belief systems that place some life forms above others. Recognizing that all organic matter is fundamentally similar could help reduce conflicts over choice of food that one eats.

By considering everything—from plants to animals to humans—as equal, we remove mental divisions and foster an inclusive understanding of existence’s interconnectedness. The money plant analogy is a powerful prompt to question beliefs that limit our thinking and embrace a worldview that celebrates life’s unity and diversity.