What does "Ahimsa" refer to in Buddhist and Hindu beliefs?

"Ahimsa" refers to the principle of non-violence in both Buddhist and Hindu beliefs. It is a fundamental ethical tenet that advocates for the avoidance of harm to any living being, emphasizing compassion and respect for all forms of life. In Hinduism, Ahimsa is closely associated with the philosophy of non-harm and is a key element in various scriptures, including the Bhagavad Gita and the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, who promoted it as a means for social change.

In Buddhism, Ahimsa is reflected in the First Precept, which instructs followers to abstain from taking life. This principle underpins the wider ethical framework within Buddhism that encourages mindfulness, compassion, and loving-kindness toward all beings. Ahimsa's significance in both religions highlights the importance placed on living harmoniously with the world and the importance of moral conduct in spiritual practice.

The other options—truthfulness, contentment, and generosity—while they may be valuable concepts within these traditions, do not encapsulate the specific essence of Ahimsa. Each of these terms relates to different virtues but does not carry the same overarching ethical implication of non-violence that is central to Ahimsa.