Answer

In Jain Dharma, eating chicken is not considered acceptable because it involves violence toward a living being.

Jainism teaches Ahimsa — non-violence — as the highest principle. Since chicken is the body of a living creature that has been killed, eating it supports himsa.

Explanation

If your friend wants to eat chicken, you can gently explain:

• Jain Dharma encourages compassion toward all living beings.
• Animals also feel pain, fear, and attachment to life.
• Eating meat increases involvement in violence, even if one does not personally kill the animal.
• A vegetarian diet is more aligned with Jain values of kindness, restraint, and purity.

You should speak respectfully, not angrily. Jainism teaches us to guide others with compassion.

Spiritual Understanding

Avoiding meat is not only about food; it is about reducing harm, controlling desires, and developing mercy toward all souls.

Takeaway

You can encourage your friend to choose vegetarian food instead, but do so with patience, humility, and kindness.