An Analysis of Animal Killing from Theravāda Buddhist Ethic Perspectives
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Abstract
This qualitative documentary study analyzes animal killing (pānātipāta) from the perspective of Theravāda Buddhist ethics. It has three objectives: to examine the meaning, types, and consequences of animal killing; to analyze selected scriptural case studies concerning animal killing; and to identify ethical teachings and practices in Theravāda Buddhism that prevent harm to animals. Primary sources include the Pāli Canon, commentarial literature, and authoritative English translations, while secondary sources include academic studies in Buddhist ethics, animal ethics, and environmental thought. The findings show that animal killing is morally evaluated through the First Precept and the central role of intention (cetanā), which determines the ethical and karmic weight of an act. Theravāda sources distinguish intentional, unintentional, direct, indirect, ritualistic, and economically motivated killing, with moral gravity shaped by intention, motivation, method, and the mental roots involved. The study examines three scriptural examples: the Kūṭadanta Sutta, which rejects ritual sacrifice; the Sundasūkarika narrative, which illustrates the danger of habitual cruelty; and the story of Thera Cakkhupāla, which clarifies the distinction between intentional and unintentional harm. The analysis concludes that Theravāda Buddhism offers a comprehensive ethical framework for reducing animal killing through moral discipline (sīla), loving-kindness (mettā), compassion (karuṇā), mindfulness of intention, and wisdom concerning kamma. The study contributes to Buddhist ethical studies by presenting a structured account of animal killing that is doctrinally grounded, ethically nuanced, and relevant to contemporary debates on animal welfare, ecological responsibility, and compassionate living.
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