1. the principle of nonviolence and the avoidance of harm to all living beings, central to Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism
Usage: from Sanskrit; often capitalized when referring to the formal philosophical principle

Examples

• Ahimsa is one of the core ethical principles in Jain philosophy.
• Gandhi's commitment to ahimsa shaped his approach to civil disobedience.
• The practice of ahimsa extends to vegetarianism in many Hindu and Buddhist communities.
• Ahimsa teaches that causing suffering to any living creature is morally wrong.
• Many yoga practitioners embrace ahimsa as part of their spiritual discipline.
• The concept of ahimsa influenced nonviolent resistance movements worldwide.