Environmental Work in Hinduism

This section explains environmental work in Hinduism. Hinduism places great emphasis on living in harmony with the natural world, and many Hindus are deeply concerned about the environmental damage caused by human activity. This concern is reflected in their efforts to protect and care for the Earth, which they view as God’s creation. Hindus believe that everything in nature is interconnected, and they strive to make choices that reflect their respect for the environment.

Hindu Teachings on the Environment

Hinduism teaches that humans are stewards of the Earth and have a responsibility to protect it. Many Hindus actively work to reduce their environmental impact by recycling, reducing their carbon footprint, and making environmentally conscious choices in their daily lives. These actions are often seen as part of their personal dharma; their duty to live ethically and in accordance with divine principles.

A key concept in Hinduism is karma; the belief that every action has consequences. Hindus believe that their actions, including how they treat the Earth, will impact their future. As such, they are encouraged to be mindful of their relationship with the natural world, avoiding overconsumption and the depletion of the planet’s resources, which have become increasingly scarce due to human greed and neglect.

The Bhagavad Gita offers valuable teachings on the responsible use of the world’s resources. In Chapter 3, Verse 12, it says:
“The gods will give you the food of your desire. Whoever enjoys their gift, yet gives nothing, is a thief, no more, no less.”

This verse teaches that humans should be grateful for the natural world’s gifts, such as plants, soil, and trees, and acknowledge that these resources are provided by God. Hindus are reminded that the Earth’s resources do not belong to them personally; they are a divine gift, and it is selfish to take them without giving anything back. This principle encourages Hindus to practice environmental responsibility and to view the world with respect and reverence.

The Role of Ahimsa and Vegetarianism

Another central teaching in Hinduism is ahimsa, which means non-violence or harmlessness. This principle extends not only to humans but also to animals and the environment. Many Hindus choose to be vegetarians as a way to live in accordance with ahimsa, as they believe that consuming animal products contributes to harm and suffering. By avoiding meat, they aim to reduce violence and show compassion to all living beings. This is an important way in which Hindus seek to minimise their negative impact on the world.

Cow Protection

One of the most notable aspects of environmental concern in Hinduism is the protection of cows. Hindus regard cows as sacred animals, and as such, they oppose the slaughter of cows. The cow is seen as a symbol of gentleness, abundance, and nourishment, and its significance in Hinduism is deeply rooted in religious texts and traditions.

The belief in the sanctity of cows is based in part on the Vedic scriptures, which describe the cow as one of the Earth’s mothers, providing nourishment through its milk. In particular, the Rig Veda contains hymns that extol the importance of the cow. One verse from the Rig Veda (1087.16–19) condemns the killing of cows and urges protection:
“The fiend who smears himself with flesh of cattle … who steals the milch-cow’s milk away, O Angi, tear off the heads of such with fiery fury.”

In accordance with these teachings, Hindus believe that anyone who harms a cow will face negative consequences due to the law of karma. To protect cows from harm and to ensure their safety, various Hindu organisations, such as the International Society for Cow Protection (ISCOWP), work to educate the public about the sacredness of cows and the importance of their protection. These organisations promote cow adoption programs, where individuals can financially support the life of a cow, ensuring that it is not slaughtered and is allowed to live peacefully.

Lord Krishna, one of the most beloved deities in Hinduism, is also closely associated with cows. In his youth, Krishna was a cowherd, and his love and care for cows are seen as a model for Hindus to follow. By protecting cows, Hindus emulate Lord Krishna’s example of compassion and service.

Hinduism encourages its followers to be responsible stewards of the environment, recognising that humans are part of the interconnected web of life. Through teachings on karma and ahimsa, Hindus are inspired to make choices that protect the Earth and its creatures, ensuring that the natural world is respected and preserved for future generations. The sacred status of cows and the emphasis on vegetarianism further reflect the Hindu commitment to non-violence and compassion towards all living beings. As part of their spiritual journey, many Hindus take action to safeguard God’s creation and to live in a way that supports the health and balance of the Earth.