Understanding How Different Religions View Animals
The internet provides us with great articles, describing all the different religious views and attitudes towards animals.
As we live amongst so many cultures in NZ, it is a great advantage to understand how different religions view animals.
Buddhism(opens in new tab)
"Although Buddhism is an animal-friendly religion, some aspects of the tradition are surprisingly negative about animals"
Christianity(opens in new tab)
For most of history Christians largely ignored animal suffering.
Islam(opens in new tab)
There is not an animal on earth, nor a bird that flies on its wings, but they are communities like you. Qur'an 6:38.
Presbyterian(opens in new tab)
Human beings have been given a unique mission to act as
"stewards" of our fellow creatures.
In the Press
Chicago Tribune(opens in new tab)
The world's primary religions consider humans to be superior to animals. While abuse is generally prohibited, most have historically overlooked cruel practices used to provide food, fur and service to humans.
Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences(opens in new tab)
Animal welfare has become a growing concern affecting acceptability of agricultural systems in many countries around the world.
World Animal Net(opens in new tab)
Religion can affect attitudes towards animals, and the way in which animals are treated, either positively or negatively.
Understand more about the views of Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, Judaism, Islam, Christianity, Roman Catholic, Greek Orthodox, Baha'i, American Indian.
Frequently Asked Questions: How Different Religions View Animals
Bible make it clear not only that cruelty to animals is forbidden but also that compassion and mercy to them are demanded of man by God. … In later rabbinic lit- erature … great prominence is also given to demonstrating God's mercy to animals, and to the importance of not causing them pain.”
https://www.humanesociety.org/sites/default/files/docs/replenish-booklet-in-color.pdf
