The Curious Case of Meat Consumption Among Nepali Hindus

Meat is not a food that is strictly prohibited in all religions. Practices and beliefs vary widely across different regions and cultures. For instance, Nepali Hindu culture, while sharing common Hindu roots, embraces meat consumption despite the prevailing vegetarian traditions within Hinduism. This article delves into the reasons behind this unique phenomenon.

Religious Flexibility: Meat and Religion

The concept of food restrictions is not universal in religious and cultural practices. While Hindus are historically known for their vegetarianism, personal beliefs and regional customs can often overlap with or diverge from Hindu scriptures. Islam, for example, has no prohibition against non-halal meat, and there are many Hindus and Jains who still consume meat. What matters is the spiritual evolution and cultural adaptation of individuals and communities.

The Cultural Context of Nepal

Nepal stands out due to its rich cultural diversity and traditional reverence for deities. In Nepal, Hindus have Tantric roots and focus on worshipping deities like Shiva and Bhawani. Unlike in India, where many devas are celebrated, Nepal emphasizes divine female energy (Shakti), with many devi temples. This demonstrates that while regional religious beliefs influence practices, they are not homogenized by national or political boundaries.

Historical and Cultural Factors

The question arises: why do some Nepali Hindus consume meat? The answer lies in the rich history and cultural evolution of the region. Although vegetarianism is recommended in ancient Hindu writings, the decision to consume meat is ultimately a personal and cultural choice.

Textual Evidence: Bhakti Literature and Wisdom

Integral to understanding this nuanced practice is the Bhakti literature of the Tamil region. In Bhakti, vegetarianism is not a mandatory dietary law but a recommendation. Sage Thiruvalluvar, a prominent figure in Tamil literature, wrote 20 couplets against consuming meat and another 20 in the 34th BCE, advocating non-violence and compassion. His writings emphasize the importance of showing kindness to all living beings.

Saint Thirumoolar’s Influence

Further evidence comes from Thirumoolar's Thirumantiram, a text rich with spiritual wisdom. Thirumoolar dedicated a separate chapter to abstinence from meat, highlighting the moral and ethical values of vegetarianism. Additionally, he penned a song that speaks to the sanctity of the human body and the importance of maintaining it as a temple for the divine.

“Heart is the sanctum sanctorum
Body made of flesh is the Temple
For the boon giving God inside
Mouth is the main entrance tower
All the 5 senses are the inextinguishable lamp
Only when the temple of body has purity the Lord will reside inside

This quote underscores the veneration of the body as a sacred space, encouraging individuals to maintain physical and spiritual purity.

The Significance of Voluntary Practices

It is important to remember that the practice of vegetarianism within Hinduism is not statutory, but rather a voluntary and recommendatory practice. Sankaranarayanan T's insights highlight that the choice to consume meat is a personal decision based on individual beliefs and cultural context.

Conclusion

The practice of consuming meat among Nepali Hindus is a reflection of the diverse and evolving nature of Hindu traditions. While Hindu scriptures recommend vegetarianism, the decision to consume meat is a cultural and personal choice. The wisdom and teachings of figures like Sage Thiruvalluvar and Thirumoolar continue to guide and influence the spiritual lives of many in the region. This highlights the importance of understanding the rich tapestry of Hindu culture and the diverse ways in which it has influenced and continues to influence daily life.