In Jainism, ahimsa (non-violence) is the supreme principle. Both actions cause harm to life, but the karmic impact depends on intention, necessity, and the nature of the life harmed.

• Grass in a field is a living being (jiva) at a very subtle level. Trampling or mowing it causes harm, but it is often seen as an unavoidable, incidental harm in ordinary activities. The aim is to minimize such harm and to act with gentleness and restraint (e.g., avoid unnecessary injury, use softer play surfaces, move slowly, etc.).

• Ginger (a root) is also a living organism with jiva. When you uproot and eat it, you kill the entire plant, which is considered more direct and intentional violence than incidental contact with grass. Some Jain practitioners avoid root vegetables because uprooting a plant causes more extensive harm to many life forms that depend on that plant and because the plant does not regrow as easily as grasses.

Key points:

• Intention matters: a sports game on grass is not performed with the aim of harming the plant; it is a social activity. Root-vegetable eating involves a deliberate act that ends the life of the plant.
• Minimizing harm is central: Jain practice encourages choosing foods and lifestyles that reduce violence to all living beings as much as possible.
• Context and tradition matter: Digambar and Shwetambar communities may differ slightly in practical rulings, but both uphold ahimsa as the core value and encourage reducing harm, especially to plant life.

Practical takeaway:

• If you want to align more closely with ahimsa, you can reduce harm by (a) using surfaces and practices that minimize grass damage, (b) choosing foods that do not involve uprooting plants when possible, and (c) cultivating a mindset of aiming for the least possible violence in daily choices.

Note: For nuanced, tradition-specific guidance, consult authorities within Digambar and Shwetambar lineages, as interpretations can vary.