Dietary Laws/Customs of Hinduism
By Adam Qian -B Block
Overview
As a religion, Hinduism contains many dietary customs and laws that make it unique. Based on the idea that all God's living creatures deserve love and respect, vegetarianism is strongly encouraged and is followed by the most devout believers who do not eat meat or flesh. For people who do not adhere to the rules as strictly, they still follow the religions dietary laws to a certain extent such as refraining from eating pork or beef. The Cow is the sacred animal in Hinduism and is almost all Hindu's avoid eating it. Hindus also practice the act of fasting and feasting. They believe that fasting is common and is a form of sacrifice. It is believed to help purify and clean the mind, body, and soul.
Special Rituals or Procedures Used to Prepare Food
In Hinduism, it is believed that eating pure food is extremely important. According to the Vedic Scriptures, all food is considered as a sacrifice to God before being eaten. As a result, it is not unusual for Hindu's to place their food before their dieties and offering a prayer before eating. In addition, they will sprinkle water around the plate of the food as a way of purification.
Three Catagories of Food
Sattvic Food
Believed to be the best kind of food, Sattvic food is purifying to the mind and non-irritating to the stomach. Sattvic foods include, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains which are believed to increase "calmness and nobility."
Rajasic Food
Pungent or spicy food such as meat, eggs, fish , and spices which bring out strong emotions and restlessness in the mind.
Tamasmic Food
Believed to be the worst kind of food, tamasmic food is leftover, stale, or overripe food which is believed to create anger, greed and other impurities within a person. Such foods might include, alcohol, wine, tobacco, pizza, etc.
Dinner Menu
Starter:
White Rice
Cauli flower and potato curry
Fried Papadam
Appetizers:
Coriander and Tamirand chutney
Wholemeal bread
Vegetable Pulao
Stuffed Okra
Dessert:
Sevaya Kheer
Shahi Tukra
Gajar Ka Halwa
Drinks:
Mango Lassi
Thandai
Bibliography
http://faithinfood.org/spirituality-food/hinduism/
http://www.minoritynurse.com/article/hindu-dietary-practices-feeding-body-mind-and-soul
"Hinduism." Faith in Food. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 Dec. 2014.
ElGindy, Gihan. "Hindu Dietary Practices: Feeding the Body, Mind and Soul."Minority Nurse. Minority Nurse, Fall 2005. Web. 08 Dec. 2014.